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.
UPDATE: Cherriots adds new route connecting south Salem to Amazon center
Starting May 5, a new bus route will cut an hour off the commute time between Southeast Commercial Street and the Southeast Mill Creek area.
Long-awaited Vietnam veteran memorial breaks ground at Oregon State Capitol
Over 100 attended the groundbreaking of the Vietnam War Memorial at Willson Park on Friday, a multi-million dollar effort to recognize the sacrifices of veterans with statues and educational information.
Salem community shares overwhelming support for the library amid budget cut talks
During the City Council Meeting on Monday, March 25, teens, librarians and community members said they did not want to see deep cuts to the Salem Public Library.
Vast majority of city council say they won’t close the library
Seven of nine Salem city councilors told Salem Reporter they would not vote for a city budget that closed the Salem Public Library, while two didn’t respond. But most said cuts will likely be needed.
UPDATE: Councilors approve public takeover of Salem’s ambulance service
During their meeting on Monday, March 25, city councilors approved the fire department’s takeover of citywide ambulance operations from Falck beginning in 2025.
Library will not shut down, city says, but more cuts on the table
Salem city leaders are preparing a budget that would further cut services at the Salem Public Library and Center 50+ without closing either. The city’s budget committee will continue to debate the proposed cuts until May 8, when they will make a recommendation to the City Council.
“It’s changed who I am:” a Salem woman’s journey into homelessness, and back out again
Toni Maries and her dog, Tucker, are two of the new residents at Sequoia Crossings, Salem’s newest affordable housing complex. Formerly a military spouse, her path into becoming homeless, and becoming housed again, spans two decades and several diagnoses.
EVENTS: Native plant sale, metal concert in Salem this weekend
This weekend in Salem, shop for native plants at Deepwood Museum & Gardens’ annual sale, and see a metal show or Koto performance.
READ IT: Mayor Hoy’s full State of the City speech
Mayor Chris Hoy delivered his 2024 State of the City Wednesday, focused on Salem's budget challenges and the city's progress on affordable housing.
Hoy pushes for more money for Salem in State of the City address
Chris Hoy’s remarks in his second State of the City speech as Mayor focused on the city’s investments in homeless services and housing development. He urged the community to support new revenue sources that would pay for the city’s police, fire, libraries and parks.