Category Government

After Oregonians reject gas tax, governor’s transportation workgroup fixates on messaging, not math
At the second meeting of Gov. Kotek’s Transportation Vision Workgroup, members spent hours discussing how to change public perception of the state transportation agency.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

No undercover license plates for ICE, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek orders
Gov. Tina Kotek’s directive followed the Trump administration suing the state last week over the issue.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

The Story Behind the Abrupt Departure of One of Oregon’s Highest-Paid Public Employees
Longtime Salem insider Chip Terhune scored a great gig. Last month, without warning, he was gone.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

Urban Renewal Area for North Waterfront would eventually bring in more property, income taxes
The city’s Urban Renewal Agency has continued talks about the possibility of setting up a new Urban Renewal Area for the North Waterfront district north of downtown. The idea was first pitched in 2024 and conversations resumed during a work session on Monday, May 18.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

Vega’s Ward 6 residency questioned as Salem city council race remains unsettled
The Oregon Secretary of State’s office is looking into allegations that Betsy Vega, the candidate poised to win a seat on the Salem City Council, changed her residence in November without informing election officials. It is unclear where she currently lives and Salem officials are waiting for state guidance to decide next steps.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

Oregonians must complete interviews to receive SNAP benefits starting June 1
Starting June 1, everyone applying for or renewing their federal food benefits will have to complete an interview with state human services staff. Since the pandemic, there has been flexibility for seniors and other specific groups.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

City council requests plan for possible security guards, metal detectors at council meetings
Salem city councilors voted unanimously to move forward with a plan for the possibility of implementing new rules on decorum and using metal detectors at public meetings. Councilors will also get a status update on a new city initiative to combat the effects of substance use in Salem.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

City council to discuss adding security guards, metal detectors at council meetings
Salem city councilors will discuss Tuesday night the possibility of implementing new rules on decorum and using metal detectors at public meetings. Councilors will also get a status update on a new city initiative to combat the effects of substance use in Salem.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.

PHOTO GALLERY: Candidates, supporters react to vote results on Salem’s election night
Salem Reporter’s photographers captured the excitement and disappointment at two election night parties Tuesday night, where candidates learned the outcomes of initial ballot counts. The results showed councilor Vanessa Nordyke ahead in her challenge to Mayor Julie Hoy, and Dave Inbody and Betsy Vega poised to flip incumbent seats.
To comment on this story, use the form at the end of the report.
