Your trusted source for local Portland, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Oregon DMV has identified 118 additional cases of individuals registered to vote without proof of U.S. citizenship, bringing the total to 1,739. Most errors originated from a previous computer system and were exacerbated by Oregon's Motor Voter law. The Secretary of State's office is investigating these cases while new safeguards are being implemented to prevent future occurrences.
Joseph Kelly Banks was found guilty except for insanity of three murders and attempted murders in a series of shootings in Portland, Oregon, in 2022. Despite the court's ruling that Banks suffers from schizophrenia, family members of the victims expressed their frustration over the leniency of the verdict. Banks will be committed to the Oregon State Hospital for mental health treatment instead of facing prison time.
Portland's quirky history includes unique facts like the city’s name originating from a coin flip and the later underground rerouting of Tanner Creek. The city also features landmarks like the extinct cinder cones of the Boring Volcanic Field and the former amusement park at Council Crest Park. These intriguing tidbits highlight Portland's rich cultural and historical tapestry.
KATU, in partnership with Pacific Office Automation, is celebrating Earth Day by highlighting local nonprofits dedicated to environmental sustainability. Throughout April, the initiative will showcase stories of organizations making significant contributions to cleaner air, greener spaces, and climate education. This effort aims to inspire community involvement in building a healthier future for Oregon.
President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs, initiating a 10% levy on imports from all countries, with higher rates for the "worst offenders." Economists predict a rise in consumer prices and a significant impact on the U.S. economy, particularly in Oregon, where manufacturing has already shown signs of stress. State economist Carl Riccadonna discusses the potential long-term effects and adjustments businesses may need to make.
A grand jury has indicted Dwight Deshawn Dew Jr. for the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Pedro Antonio Prieto-Lopez in a Washington County parking lot in May 2023. Dew Jr., who was already incarcerated for a separate offense, faces charges including manslaughter and unlawful use of a weapon. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Portland City Council is deliberating on an ordinance proposed by Councilor Angelita Morillo that seeks to ban the use of artificial intelligence in setting rent prices. This legislation aims to combat potential anti-competitive practices within the housing market, particularly in light of recent antitrust investigations involving major landlords. The proposal has sparked a heated debate among stakeholders regarding its implications for small landlords and the overall housing market.
A former employee of the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will receive $465,000 as part of a whistleblower settlement related to payroll issues following a system switch. The employee was terminated after raising concerns about missing and incorrect paychecks that affected numerous state workers. The agency confirmed that the payroll issues have since been resolved.
Conservation groups in Oregon achieved a significant legal victory against the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), as a federal judge ruled the agency's logging plans for old-growth forest lands were illegal. The ruling emphasizes the importance of protecting late successional reserves, which are critical for maintaining old-growth ecosystems. Conservationists now aim to collaborate with BLM on projects focused on fire resiliency and habitat preservation rather than timber sales.
Federal authorities conducted a significant drug bust in Gresham, Oregon, arresting Kevin and Kristi Olsen at their home while uncovering a drug market that drew numerous customers weekly. The operation, known as "Dank Gas Parties," reportedly featured multiple vendors selling various controlled substances, including MDMA, cocaine, and marijuana. The investigation revealed a marijuana grow on their property, raising questions about its legality.