Your trusted source for local Portland, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Multnomah County voters approved a $1.8 billion bond for Portland Public Schools in the May 20 special election, with nearly 59 percent in favor. The election also resulted in new leaders for several school boards, with significant voter turnout reported at nearly 25 percent. Final results will be certified by June 16.
Portland city councilors redirected $2 million from police funding to park maintenance during a lengthy budget session. The city faces a $93 million budget shortfall, prompting amendments to the proposed $8.5 billion budget submitted by Mayor Keith Wilson.
Fire weather days in Oregon have surged, prompting concerns among officials. Meanwhile, the Portland City Council has redirected $2 million from police funding to parks, reflecting a shift in budget priorities. These developments highlight ongoing local efforts to address community needs amid environmental challenges.
Portland's Old Town neighborhood is undergoing significant redevelopment led by the Old Town Community Association (OTCA), raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. OTCA president Jessie Burke and treasurer Jonathan Cohen, who own a local hotel, have influenced funding decisions for a project called Made in Old Town, which aims to establish a multi-building sportswear campus. Critics question whether the project's financial backing, including a $2 million state grant, is appropriate given OTCA's close ties to its leaders.
A new bagel shop, Sincerely, Bagel, has quickly gained popularity in the Kerns neighborhood of Portland since opening earlier this year. The business draws on traditional Korean flavors and quality ingredients, promising a unique culinary experience.
Portland ranks 9th in the nation for its parks, according to the Trust for Public Land's ParkScore rankings. The city scored highest in investment, allocating $274 per resident, but faces challenges in equity as neighborhoods with higher populations of people of color have access to significantly less park space.
Portland City Councilors Mitch Green and Candace Avalos proposed a rent subsidy for tenants at Everett Station Lofts amid rising rent concerns. Their plan, aimed at addressing a unique leasing agreement that has led to higher rents, seeks to allocate $100,000 from the budget to support affected residents. The council is set to vote on the amendment on May 21.
Portland experiences significant land subsidence, with over 80% of the city sinking at an average rate of 2 millimeters per year. A recent study highlights the risks to urban infrastructure, exacerbated by seismic activity and aging buildings. Researchers urge cities to integrate subsidence into their adaptation strategies.
A Portland man, Kenneth Kolarsky, 58, faces arrest for a fatal hit-and-run that killed pedestrian Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza in Woodburn last December. Kolarsky, who had an outstanding felony warrant, was apprehended outside Silverton Hospital on Saturday night. Authorities continue to investigate the incident that occurred while Hernandez-Mendoza was crossing the street.
Oregon's enforcement of the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule will be delayed until 2027, jeopardizing efforts to reduce diesel emissions. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) cited manufacturer concerns and federal uncertainties as reasons for the postponement. Environmental advocates warn this delay could negatively impact public health and climate initiatives.