Troy Brynelson - Salem Reporter

Uncategorized

Neighbors prevail over Costco after years-long push for south Salem project

City planner Aaron Panko speaks at Salem City Council Monday night. Public testimony lasted nearly three hours in the debate over whether to approve a shopping center in South Salem. (Troy Brynelson/Salem Reporter) Determined Salem neighbors fought the $100 billion company Costco to a standstill Monday night, convincing the Salem[Read More…]

Uncategorized

Ex-Dallas councilor known for intolerant statements now a finalist for Polk commissioner

The Polk County Courthouse. (Courtesy of Janet Guzman/Polk County Itemizer-Observer) UPDATE 10:50 a.m. Dec. 5: Micky Garus was not appointed Polk County Commissioner. Commissioners unanimously chose Lyle Mordhorst, a manager at Les Schwab and former president of the West Salem High School Education Foundation. As a Dallas city councilor, Micky[Read More…]

Uncategorized

Polk County interviewing new commissioner candidates ahead of Wheeler’s sudden retirement

Jennifer Wheeler, pictured in her office in Dallas on Wednesday, is retiring early after a recent policy change at the Public Employees Retirement System. Her last day is Dec. 31. (Troy Brynelson/Salem Reporter) A change in Polk County Commissioner Jennifer Wheeler’s retirement plans forced her to an early exit, and[Read More…]

Uncategorized

Third bridge’s fate delayed again

Residents gave public testimony for two hours at Salem City Council on Monday. Councilors ultimately voted to host a work session and postpone a motion that would have renewed momentum for the Salem River Crossing. (Troy Brynelson/Salem Reporter) The Salem City Council went for a “pinky swear” Monday night, deciding to[Read More…]