Commissioners call for police in schools, celebrate wildfire recovery in State of the County

The three Marion County Commissioners talked about their top priorities during the annual State of the County address and recognized some of the achievements made in the last several years. The commissioners discussed expanding law enforcement, behavioral health and housing.
New medical waste facility approved to operate in Northgate after neighborhood opposition

A medical waste facility, owned by Bio Clean Industries, was approved by the city of Salem to operate in Northgate neighborhood after both Northgate and Highland neighborhoods opposed the decision. The facility will shred and treat medical waste before transferring it to a landfill.
Bridgeway ends plan for recovery home as local treatment providers brace for state funding cuts

Two of Salem’s largest addiction treatment providers will lose at least $1 million in annual state funding for recovery services due to funding changes made by the Oregon Health Authority last week. Bridgeway Community Health will be unable to fund a new men’s stabilization center, which it planned to open early this year.
City invites public feedback for initial design of upgraded Riverfront Park playground

The city of Salem is inviting the public to learn about its plan to update Riverfront Park’s playground and give feedback on how to make it more accessible for children at an April 12 open house. The upgraded playground is set to be done in 2026, thanks in part to a large state grant the city received last year.
Agribusiness executive Craig Smith chosen as new Union Gospel Mission leader

The Union Gospel Mission announced Monday that Craig Smith, a local volunteer and agriculture business leader, will become the organization’s new executive director May 1.
What to do in Salem from March 27- April 2: Easter marketplace, canoe documentary, comedy

Events in Salem this week include a premiere screening of a canoeing documentary, a weekend Easter marketplace at the state fairgrounds and a classic country and rock music show.
Police seek additional victims of Salem man charged with sex abuse of girls

Damien M. Arellano, 19, of Salem, was arrested earlier this month in California after being charged with sex crimes involving three Salem girls between 12 and 17 years old. He is now in custody at the Marion County Jail.
Salem man faces federal arson charges in Tesla vandalism case

A Salem man accused of throwing Molotov cocktails at the Salem Tesla dealership in January was charged with two counts of attempted arson in federal court last week.
Engelberg Antiks’ owners carry on founder’s history, celebrate 40 years

Locally-owned antique mall Engelberg Antiks is celebrating 40 years in its downtown Salem building next Tuesday with discounts, games and sweets.
Salem man accused of manslaughter in fatal crash near Stayton

A Salem man was arrested after a fatal single-vehicle crash near Stayton killed a 16-year-old and seriously injured three other minor passengers. Christopher Atkinson, 33, is in custody at the Marion County Jail on several charges, including manslaughter, assault and driving under the influence.


