Category Government
Salem councilors vote to tax worker paychecks after citizens overwhelmingly ask them not to
Councilors in a 5-4 vote approved a new tax on workers in Salem that would cost the average employee about $500 annually starting in July 2024. The tax would bring in about $28 million per year to maintain and expand police and fire staffing, and keep homeless shelters open.
UPDATE: Marion County commissioners renew Woodburn crisis response
Commissioners on Wednesday unanimously approved a $300,000 contract with the city of Woodburn to provide mobile crisis services.
YOUR GOVERNMENT: Council to consider new tax on worker paychecks
The Salem City Council meets Monday, July 10, to hold a public hearing and vote on the proposed payroll tax which would affect those who earn a paycheck in Salem. The agenda also includes a motion to reconsider zoning changes in the SCAN neighborhood that the council rejected in June.
Oregon AFSCME leader under investigation following performance complaint
Stacy Chamberlain, who runs one of the state’s largest unions representing many state and Salem employees, is on leave as elected union leaders spearhead an investigation. Leaders declined to say what the complaint was about.
Federal judge tosses Oregon lawsuit over mail voting, tabulation machines
A federal judge has tossed a lawsuit intended to end mail voting and electronic voting tabulation in Oregon, saying “generalized grievances” about the state’s elections aren’t enough to give a group of unsuccessful Republican candidates and other election deniers standing to sue.
Oregon lawmakers earmark millions for mental health and addiction services
The Legislature passed measures to provide more residential care, respond to people in crises and fight the opioid overdose epidemic.
US Supreme Court rules against Biden administration student loan debt relief plan
The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday ruled that the Biden administration does not have the legal authority to enact a one-time student debt relief program, dealing a blow to the 40 million Americans who would have qualified for the program.
Cherriots gets federal boost for more electric buses
A first round of electric buses are close to hitting the streets, while new federal money will allow Cherriots to buy five more.
UPDATE: Marion County commissioners approve state funds for mental health providers
Commissioners on Wednesday approved a $2 million state grant to help recruit behavioral health providers to move to Marion County.