Category City Hall
City leaders outline plan to expand police homeless service team, deploy mental health responders
Early plans to address safety and livability concerns in Salem hinge on upcoming deliberations among the city’s budget committee slated to begin taking place next month. On Wednesday Salem city councilors discussed progress on those plans to address petty crime, increasing behavioral health assistance and improving cleanliness downtown and in northeast Salem.
Salem city councilors hope to leverage temporary financial stability for the long term
Despite more money coming into city coffers from a property tax increase, new paid parking and the end of two Urban Renewal Areas, the city is still on a direct course for a budget deficit in its general fund by 2030. City councilors discussed Monday how to prioritize programs and services with limited resources to minimize future financial risk.
Councilor Vanessa Nordyke will challenge Mayor Julie Hoy in 2026 city election
Salem City Councilor Vanessa Nordyke has filed to run for mayor, challenging Julie Hoy, who’s seeking a second term. Nordyke announced her campaign on Thursday and said if she becomes mayor she will prioritize Salem’s most vulnerable and will conduct city business with more transparency and ethical conduct.
Salem city councilors hope businesses, organizations will pay for commercial air subsidies
Most Salem city councilors indicated Monday they’re unwilling to spend city funds to subsidize a new commercial airline. They’re asking city employees to seek out options for private or other government funding.
Council report says $3 million minimum needed to lure new airline to Salem
Salem city councilors will discuss Monday what it will take to bring a new commercial airline to town following the departure of Avelo Airlines in July.
Salem city councilors support transportation bill while Marion County commissioners oppose it
Salem Mayor Julie Hoy sent a letter of support for a new $4.3 billion transportation bill to the Legislature’s transportation funding committee on behalf of the Salem City Council, saying increases in taxes and fees are needed to address rising road maintenance costs for Salem.
Council discusses balancing access, ecological preservation at Bush’s Pasture Park
Salem city councilors on Monday discussed changes to an existing no-mow program at Bush’s Pasture Park designed to preserve the park's majestic white oak trees while continuing to provide safe picnicking areas for visitors. The council voted 5-3 to send the matter to the Salem Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
UPDATED: City councilors vote to consider joining state energy program
Salem city councilors voted Monday in favor of looking into a state energy program that would provide long-term financing to property owners for efficiency upgrades.
Salem councilors want more information before they authorize subsidies for new airline
Salem city councilors discussed the future of commercial air service on Monday before voting unanimously to direct city staff to gather more information on what is needed to seal a deal with a new carrier. Councilors will revisit the topic at a meeting on Sept. 8 which provides more time to engage with airlines and determine options.