Abbey McDonald
Senior Reporter Abbey McDonald joined the Salem Reporter in 2022, where she covers homelessness and housing. She previously worked as the business reporter at The Astorian. A University of Oregon grad, she has also reported for the Malheur Enterprise, The News-Review and Willamette Week.
Budget committee votes to fund Salem’s library following outpouring of community support
Salem’s budget committee on Wednesday voted to use hotel tax money to stave off proposed library reductions for the next year, as a revenue task force seeks long-term funding. The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association is questioning the move.
Applewood Retirement closure displaces dozens of seniors in tough rental market
With the building on Northeast Lancaster Road set to sell, residents at Applewood Retirement Community were given 30 days to move from their apartments. Several said they’ll be paying hundreds more per month or had to leave Salem to find somewhere affordable to live.
Mayor Chris Hoy proposes stopgap to avoid Salem library cuts this year
Mayor Chris Hoy will present a motion Wednesday to use money from hotel taxes to stave off library budget cuts for the next fiscal year. He called the measure a temporary solution.
How you can weigh in on Salem’s city budget cuts
In the coming weeks, there will be town halls, public testimony and write-in opportunities for Salemites to share their thoughts on city budget cuts and revenue options.
Library workers given layoff notice for July as city moves forward with budget cuts
City Manager Keith Stahley said it’s “definitely a possibility” that the West Salem library branch would close as a result of his proposed budget cuts.
Julie Hoy’s efforts to promote tire business prompted city ethics warning
In February, Salem City Councilor Julie Hoy’s push for the city to consider business with a local tire provider was met with a reminder from City Manager Keith Stahley about city ethics laws prohibiting councilors from influencing city contracts, according to city email records.
UPDATE: Councilors approve settlement with former 911 dispatcher
During their meeting on Monday, April 8, the Salem City Council approved a $325,000 settlement with a former 911 dispatcher who said she was denied a promotion after department leaders refused to reschedule an exam so she could testify in court against her abuser.
As Salem weighs budget, community rallies against cuts to library
Amid ongoing budget discussions, around 100 people, including library employees, joined a sign rally outside the Salem Public Library on Sunday to ask that no more cuts be made to it.
CULTURE: April’s art, history exhibitions and events
A fresh slate of gallery shows open this month in Salem, including showcases from graduating art students, knit marine life and celebrations of self-expression.
Qingming Festival returns to celebrate Salem’s Chinese ancestors, history and community
Salem’s sixth annual Qingming Festival starts Thursday, and this year will highlight the life of Low Sun Fook, a prominent Salem business owner known as “Hop Lee” who died in 1925. Events include book discussions with his grandson, Dr. Russell Low, who said Salem has a rare history of inclusion.