Abbey McDonald
Abbey McDonald joined the Salem Reporter in 2022. She previously worked as the business reporter at The Astorian, where she covered labor issues, health care and social services. A University of Oregon grad, she has also reported for the Malheur Enterprise, The News-Review and Willamette Week.
Councilors who voted no on payroll tax address Salem budget questions
With the referendum for payroll tax heading to the November ballot, Salem Reporter sent additional questions to the councilors who voted against the tax about how the city should address a budget shortfall and potential cuts that would occur if the tax was voted down.
UPDATE: Councilors approve plans for west Salem apartment complex
The Salem City Council meets Monday, Aug. 14, at 6 p.m. to consider a motion to host discussions with constituents, plans for a west Salem apartment complex and to hear an update about ongoing infrastructure bond-funded projects.
Where to stay cool in Salem as temperatures hit triple-digits
An excessive heat warning is in effect through Sunday in the Salem area. Here’s where you can access some air conditioning and hydration.
Salem payroll tax heading to November ballot
County officials confirmed Friday that the petition to put the Salem Payroll tax on the November ballot reached the required 3,986 verified signatures to qualify for the election.
Salem payroll tax expected to make November ballot as Marion County begins verifying signatures
Organizers say they have submitted nearly 13,000 signatures in an attempt to refer the planned Salem payroll tax to voters in November. County and city officials say the petition will likely meet the required threshold of 3,986 verified Salem voters in the next few days.
Pentacle to perform an unconventional detective story
The Pentacle Theatre’s performance of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” starts Friday, and runs through Sept. 2. In the play, a teenager investigates the unexpected death of his neighbor’s dog.
UO students to help make Salem more walkable, equitable
Salem has been selected for the University of Oregon’s Sustainable City Year Program, which will have students of architecture, planning, public administration, journalism and geography bring their thoughts and skills to real city projects.
Kotek vetoes money for Salem streetcar study, career academy
Gov. Tina Kotek on Friday said she would follow through on planned vetoes announced last week for several budget items allocated by the legislature, including two Salem projects.
ART: August’s artist exhibitions in Salem
This month, Salem’s art scene offers a trip into surreal landscapes and a chance to see depictions of local parks before the paint dries.
Plan for Pringle Creek walking and bike path gets $6 million from the state
The city has been awarded $6 million from the state to connect the Salem Civic Center to a network of paths reaching Riverfront Park, Willamette University and Wallace Marine Park. Construction is still years away.