On Sept. 9, Salem city councilors voted in favor to allocate $10,000 from the general fund to pay for community outreach and education leading up to a possible tax increase on the May 2025 ballot.
City News
Cherriots reports increase in assaults against drivers, workers
Between April and June the number of reported assaults against transit operators in the Salem area more than doubled, to 22, compared to the prior quarter. The Cherriots Board will hear a security report at its Sept. 26 meeting.
City plans insecticide injections for ash trees to combat invasive insect found in Marion County
Emerald ash borers, an invasive insect, were detected in Marion County, prompting Salem to plan insecticide treatments. The Oregon Department of Agriculture announced a permanent quarantine for four counties in Oregon barring them from moving wood products that could be infested.
REPORT: Salem police chased fleeing drivers far less in 2023
Police vehicular pursuit data for 2023 showed the vast majority of people leading police on car chases in Salem were men between the ages of 22 and 40. Police chases were typically initiated as a result of felony crimes, the report showed.
Speed limit on stretch of SE Commercial reduced to 35 mph
The speed limit on Southeast Commercial Street between Southeast Browning Avenue and Southeast Barnes Avenue will be reduced from 40 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour starting Sept. 9. The city of Salem said the reduction comes after community feedback and data showed that stretch of road is dangerous.
City gets new fire chief as Niblock retires after a 20-year career in Salem
Salem’s longtime fire chief, Mike Niblock, will retire on Sept. 20. Stepping up to take his place is Dave Gerboth, assistant fire chief at the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.
Church at the Park to expand adult micro shelter site
Salem’s oldest micro shelter site, Village of Hope, plans to soon add 40 beds and pave sidewalks to accommodate unsheltered people over age 55 in Salem.
Council advances plan to poll community on possible property tax increase
Salem city councilors unanimously voted to authorize the city manager’s office to poll likely voters. The plan also calls for a performance audit to find ways to save money on city services.
After listening for months, city sets to work on anti-violence strategy
With the conclusion of the city’s Community Violence Reduction Initiative listening sessions, city officials say they are hiring a coordinator. The position is seen as vital to turn ideas into action to reduce gun violence in Salem.
City council discusses possible next steps to address budgetary shortfalls
Salem city councilors discussed next steps in addressing the city’s looming budget crisis – including polling likely voters to identify community priorities and conducting a review of the city’s financial forecast
