City News

First forum for Salem’s proposed “sit-lie” ordinance leaves residents, officials wanting more discussion

Kelly Teves, 48, voices her opposition to an idea to ban sitting or lying on city public rights-of-way for most hours of the day. Teves spoke during the first community forum held to discuss the proposal. (Troy Brynelson/Salem Reporter) The first public talks about a divisive proposal to ban sitting[Read More…]

Downtown stakeholders split on ordinance to restrict sitting, lying on sidewalks

Robert Stone, of Cheyenne, Wyo., sits outside near a coffee shop in downtown Salem. The homeless Salem resident said he would “probably” be impacted by a proposed ban on sitting or lying down on public rights of way. (Troy Brynelson/Salem Reporter) Those who provide safety nets for Salem’s homeless residents are[Read More…]

Former Salem Housing Authority staffer slams “very toxic” environment in resignation

A former grant writer at Salem Housing Authority called out the agency in her resignation letter, calling it “very toxic,” at a time when the agency’s flagship homeless assistance program is in flux. Pamala Garrick wrote that the agency hired “unqualified” managers and that her supervisors lied to her in[Read More…]