Category Government
Federal judge denies anti-gas tax group’s attempt to extend voters’ pamphlet deadline
U.S. District Judge Michael Simon on Friday denied the plaintiffs’ motion to allow for 52 more submissions to the Oregon Voters’ Pamphlet.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
CITY MEETING: City to evaluate drug use resources, consider Airbnb fees
The Salem City Council will meet Monday, March 23, at 6 p.m. to hear updates on staff efforts to evaluate existing resources for preventing, addressing and enforcing drug use, and will consider applying to federal grants to repave an airport taxiway.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Oregon voters have rejected most laws in referendums, with many decided outside November
Oregon voters have shot down nearly two-thirds of laws referred to the ballot through the referendum process in Oregon history.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
City testing new AI dispatch system to handle non-emergency calls
A new automated system is taking some non-emergency calls at the Willamette Valley Communications Center as a way to relieve overworked dispatch center staff, and provide faster service for callers. Humans will still be answering emergency calls.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
How Salem lawmakers’ priorities fared during the 2026 session
From immigration to health care, local lawmakers had ambitious priorities for the 35-day legislative session. Here's what passed and what didn't.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Republican gov hopefuls among Oregon lawmakers who missed more than one-third of session votes
Two Republican state representatives missed roughly half of the 183 floor votes House members took at the Capitol in Salem.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Council candidates and 1 running for Salem mayor scheduled at Town Hall
Salem Reporter Town Hall will spotlight those running for city council and one councilor seeking to become Salem's next mayor. The free public event is Tuesday, March 31.
City, school district pay thousands more per week for fuel as gas prices climb nationwide
While prices at the pump creep higher for Oregon residents, Cherriots, the city of Salem, the Salem-Keizer School District and Polk County are paying more to keep public vehicles on the road.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
Hoy not offered chance to sign immigration letter, Kotek records confirm
Records obtained by Salem Reporter show a staffer for Gov. Tina Kotek reached out to Mayor Julie Hoy three days after releasing an open letter calling for a pause on federal immigration enforcement. Mayors from several cities had signed, raising questions in the community why Salem was absent.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.