Category City News
Rent growth slowing in Salem as more apartments open
Business leaders presented data on the state of Salem’s economy at the annual SVN Economic Forum, including the region’s housing growth and interest from tech companies in locating data centers in the area.
Community health improvement effort will focus on housing, access, mental health and substance use
A recent health assessment found that people in Marion and Polk counties are struggling to access quality health care. The findings will guide a five-year plan for improving community health.
Oregon Gov. Kotek, lawmakers push for more regional collaboration for homeless shelters and services
House Bill 3644 would formalize practices local governments and service providers developed during the ongoing homelessness state of emergency.
Review of payrolls shows higher hourly pay but lower overall earnings under farmworker overtime law
An Oregon law passed in 2022 to phase in overtime pay for farmworkers has led to higher farmworker wages, but a new study shows hours are being scaled back to avoid overtime pay.
Salem City Council votes unanimously to put property tax increase before voters in May
If Salem voters approve a tax levy in May, the average homeowner would pay about $229 per year to avoid deep cuts to city services like the library, parks maintenance and Center 50+.
High wind brings multiple power outages to Salem area
This story was updated at 8:10 a.m. Tuesday after power had been restored. As of 8 a.m. Tuesday, power has been restored to more than 3,400 Salem homes and businesses after they lost power Monday night as high winds and rain swept through the area. …
Sewer blockage causes over 2,000 gallons of raw sewage to spill into Waln Creek
Over 2,000 gallons of raw sewage spilled into Waln Creek Sunday afternoon after a sewer blockage led to an overflow. This is Salem’s third sewer spill in two months.
Potential flooding, heavy rainfall expected in Salem through Tuesday
The Willamette River in Salem rose about five feet in the past 24 hours, but creeks and rivers in Salem are expected to remain below flood stage.
Salem-area homeless deaths declined in 2024, preliminary state data shows
Oregon Health Authority data shows the number of homeless people who died in Marion and Polk counties decreased last year from 50 to 45. Homeless advocates say that’s thanks to an increase in available shelter beds in recent years.