Category City News
Greg Smith faces ethics investigation over big pay raise
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission is investigating whether state Rep. Greg Smith violated state law in his efforts to raise his own pay as executive director of the Columbia Development Authority.
Revolt by Oregon counties delays state behavioral health changes
State health officials want counties to focus mental health spending on criminal defendants, but counties say vulnerable people would lose access and suffer as a result.
Concern, confusion as Salem rolls out paid downtown parking
Despite new parking signs indicating pay-to-park with 12-hour limits downtown, visitors can still park for 3 hours for free until the city’s new parking program goes live on July 10.
Salem doctors, nurses ask lawmakers to fight harder against cuts to Medicaid
Over 600 doctors around the state have added their names to a joint letter asking Oregon’s state and federal lawmakers to stop proposed federal cuts to Medicaid. Many on the list work in Salem Health’s emergency department.
City of Salem summer camps: A guide to this year’s programs
After a scramble from the city's budget shortfall and the passage of a new tax levy, Salem city summer camps are returning this year. Here are this year's offerings.
UPDATED: School board approves $15.5 million purchase of Wells Fargo call center
The Salem-Keizer School Board voted to authorize the purchase of a 15.9-acre property that could bring several alternative school programs under one roof.
Councilors won’t act on Avelo contract, saying it’s financially risky
Dozens of people came to Monday’s Salem City Council meeting to urge counselors to cut ties with Avelo Airlines after the budget airline announced last month it was assisting the federal government’s deportation efforts. City councilors also approved the 2026 budget, parking fees for businesses, and postponed a discussion on public safety downtown to a work session on July 21.
Oregon House passes bill that would require health insurers cover menopause treatment
The Oregon House unanimously passed a bill Tuesday that would require health insurers provide treatment for people experiencing perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause.
Lawmakers plan to fund some Salem projects, while payment for city services comes up short
Salem-area lawmakers failed for a second year to get the state to chip in to cover city public safety costs. But other major projects, including $6 million for a new Marion Polk Food Share warehouse, made the cut.