Category Government
As local governments sharpen focus on Wallace Marine Park, residents worry about a lack of options
For the first time, Marion County, Polk County and the city of Salem are meeting to discuss a joint plan to address camping at Wallace Marine Park. Though the park is in Polk County, Marion County commissioners say the problems are significant enough to merit a regional response.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek confirms she will seek reelection in 2026
The governor sought to frame herself as a protector of Oregon values who could support working families, as the state battles sluggish economic growth and rising unemployment.
What they said – voices of Salem speak up on immigration
Over two nights, Salem city councilors listened to one citizen after another address immigration issues in the community. Here is a sampling of what they said.
Salem declares emergency over increased ICE activity, citing reports of unlawful arrests
Salem city councilors voted 6-3 Monday night to pass an emergency declaration over immigration enforcement that was proposed by Councilor Vanessa Nordyke, with Mayor Julie Hoy and Councilors Deanna Gwyn and Shane Matthews voting no.
Salem city councilors to vote Monday on declaring state of emergency over ICE activity
A city emergency declaration would allow Salem to work with community groups for outreach and communication with people affected by ICE activity.
City council moves toward declaring state of emergency over increased ICE arrests
More than 200 people packed into Monday’s city council meeting, with many offering emotional testimony about the impact of immigration arrests on their families, friends and peers. Salem city councilors split 6-3 on taking steps toward a declaration of emergency.
100 Oregon National Guard troops still mobilized despite Kotek hearing otherwise
The Oregon Military Department estimates that the deployment of Oregon Guard cost taxpayers $16 million.
New Trump administration policies on homelessness ask Salem providers to follow methods they say don’t work
A Trump administration shift in homelessness policy would prioritize shelters that require drug treatment and work with immigration authorities, with a preference for funding new programs over existing ones. Salem providers said the changes would be “catastrophic.”
City leaders get to work charting Salem’s course ahead for the next five years
Salem city councilors held a work session on Monday night to begin setting goals and priorities, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and developing a mission statement and vision that will guide Salem services.