Category COUNTY GOVERNMENT

VOTE 2024: Commissioner Mordhorst, Monmouth Councilor Beltz vie for Polk County seat
Lyle Mordhorst hopes to finish the work he started in his first term as a Polk County commissioner. Challenger Roxanne Beltz, a Monmouth city councilor, believes she has a broader skill set for the job.

YOUR GOVERNMENT: Federal money approved to design Santiam Canyon sewer system
Marion County Commissioners on Wednesday approved $4.16 of federal Covid relief money for an engineering firm to design a new sanitary sewer system that would serve the cities of Idanha, Detroit, Gates and Mill City.

YOUR GOVERNMENT: Safe walking routes for Four Corners kids move forward
Marion County Commissioners on Wednesday approved a construction contract for a project that will add a crosswalk and more sidewalks near Four Corners Elementary School this summer.

Following Salem, Marion County hires researchers to analyze gun violence
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office estimates it will release a report in late summer on gun violence across the county after hiring the same researchers the city of Salem used. The data will include unincorporated east Salem, which was notably missing from a recent city report.

Commissioners approve emergency prep funding for disabilities program
Commissioners on Wednesday approved a petition to annex several parcels to the Santiam Water Control District so they can receive irrigation water from the district.

Commissioners approve hiring supervisors for water system upgrades in NW Marion County
Commissioners on Wednesday approved additional funding for a contract with a company that sells snacks, beverages and hygiene items to people in custody at the Marion County Jail.

YOUR GOVERNMENT: Marion County Commissioners add money to homeowner rehab program
Commissioners on Wednesday approved additional funding for a program which helps low-to-moderate-income homeowners pay for a new roof, ventilation system or other such improvements.

Who’s on the ballot for 2024 Marion, Polk county elections
Voters in both Marion and Polk counties have rare contested races for sheriff, while Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell is running for reelection unopposed.

YOUR GOVERNMENT: Marion County receives federal grant for River Road bridge repairs
A $7 million federal grant will help Marion County pay for repairs and strengthening of the River Road bridge outside of Independence. Construction would likely begin in 2026.