Category Business
COLUMN: ‘Quit rates’ climb in low-paying jobs as economy recovers in Salem
THE ECONOMY: A tight labor market has opened the way for those in low-paying jobs to get new positions with better pay. About one in three Salem area workers have seen pay raises in the past year.
Salem-area unemployment rate continues steady rise in December
The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 4.3% in November to 4.5% in December, according to state Employment Department data. That figure remains low by historical standards for Salem.
Salem’s economy will be driven by housing choices, local leaders say
The availability of people to take local jobs and homes to house them are expected to drive Salem's economy in 2023. Interest rates and foreign affairs could also ripple through Salem, local leaders say. Salem Reporter surveyed them on their outlooks for the year.
New owner brings flair for arranging to Olson’s Flowers
Ken Haseltine got his start in floral design at 17 and now runs Salem's century-old downtown floral shop.
Salem will get fourth farmers market at Chemeketa in 2023
Salem Community Markets is preparing for its largest season yet, with a March 4 opening date for the flagship Saturday Market.
Unemployment increases statewide and in Marion and Polk counties
Statewide unemployment rose to 4.4% in November, up from 4.1% in October, according to recent data from the Oregon Employment Department.
Marion County has federal funding on standby for infrastructure improvements, homeless services
County officials have until 2026 to spend nearly $68 million in federal aid and are awaiting requests for reimbursement when construction and other projects are completed.
Laws protecting workers from heat and smoke will not be overturned, judge rules
A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit brought by three industry groups.
COLUMN: Making sense of Salem’s strange economic climate
Pamela Ferrara of the Willamette Workforce Partnership explains why state economists are predicting a recession despite strong economic indicators.