OREGON LEGISLATURE March 21
Plan to pack duplexes, town houses into neighborhoods faces opposition from Oregon cities
One plan to address the need for more homes in Oregon was to allow varied housing in areas usually reserved for single homes. The plan remains alive in the Legislature, but more cities are being excused from participating.
SALEM GOVERNMENT March 20
Salem lawyer threatens lawsuit claiming stormwater, streetlight fees unconstitutional
James Vick, of Glantz Law Group, wrote to Salem on Feb. 26 saying its fees violate the Oregon Constitution. City Manager Steve Powers said recently the fees were thoroughly researched to be within the law.
YOUR GOVERNMENT, YOUR BUSINESS March 20
AGENDA: Chemeketa board to consider contract for new president
The Chemeketa Community College board meets 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 20.
STATE GOVERNMENT March 20
Tobacco tax would limit significant sales from Washingtonians, state economist says
With a much lower tax, Oregon experiences a high number of tobacco sales from out-of-state smokers looking to save on cigarettes.
MEASLES March 19
Second measles case confirmed in unvaccinated Marion County resident
Both cases are in unvaccinated people and are linked to an out-of-state traveler contagious with the disease who traveled to the Salem area in late February.
COMMUNITY COLLEGE March 19
Following tuition increase, Chemeketa looks to layoffs to balance 2019-20 budget
Facing a $5 million budget gap for the coming year, Chemeketa Community College is planning to cut 33 positions, including laying off seven employees.
YOUR GOVERNMENT, YOUR BUSINESS March 19
AGENDA: Polk County Commission to consider community mediation funding
The Polk County Commission meets 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 20.
STATE GOVERNMENT March 19
Oregon winemakers push bills to clamp down on out-of-state competition
New legislation would make it harder for a wine bottle to claim origin from an Oregon wine region, and give the state greater power to punish wineries for mislabeling. The proposals stem from a spat with a Napa Valley winery, but some businesses in southern Oregon also have concerns.
OREGON LEGISLATURE March 19
Oregon may make new move to limit money going to candidates
A potential amendment to the Oregon Constitution would make campaign funding limits the law - long after voters said they wanted to control political cash.
COMMENTARY March 17
Thanks, Salem, for your favorable reviews of our work
As we hit the six-month mark for serving Salem, we asked readers to give us reviews. The response was strong and encouraging. Here's what some of you had to say.
OREGON LEGISLATURE March 17
Witnesses say children need to be readied for life after big Oregon quake
Earthquake drills at schools would include survival training under proposed legislation considered by Oregon legislative committee
OREGON LEGISLATURE March 16
Legislators try to catch up with Oregon's burgeoning marijuana market
Reforms being proposed at the Legislature could change how, where you can get marijuana and what employers can do.
SALEM GOVERNMENT March 15
Raw sewage spilled into Claggett Creek
The city of Salem says a sanitary sewer pipe became clogged. A press release Friday afternoon said the city does not know how much sewage spilled.
RELIGION March 15
Fear and peace during Friday services at Salem mosque following New Zealand mass shooting
Nefisa Jara woke up fearful and considered not coming to jummah, the Friday midday prayer when Muslims usually gather. But she said hearing the words of God brought her peace.
“If I’m gunned down, I’m gunned down doing something I love,” she said.
OREGON LEGISLATURE March 15
Local governments say they need more time to learn to obey year-old records law
In testimony this week, lobbyists for cities, counties and other local governments objected to a plan to fine agencies $200 for failing to turn over public records. Journalists supported the plan.
