Your trusted source for local Portland, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
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.
The University of Oregon is facing scrutiny after the Department of Homeland Security revoked an international student's visa without prior notice. Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and legal U.S. resident, was arrested for leading pro-Palestinian protests, raising concerns about immigration policies and free speech. The situation highlights broader national trends affecting international students amid intensified immigration enforcement.
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.
A car collided with a MAX train at Southwest 3rd and Lincoln in Portland early Wednesday morning, prompting a swift response from emergency crews. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among passengers, but one individual, Antonine Robinson, was arrested for reckless driving and endangerment. The situation is still developing, with more details expected to emerge.
The article discusses the challenges faced by Oregon's government in addressing affordable housing, particularly under Governor Tina Kotek's administration. It highlights a recent report by the Oregon Journalism Project that questions whether local wage laws hinder housing development efforts. The conversation includes insights from Nigel Jaquiss, emphasizing the complexities of political motivations behind housing policies.
Oregon lawmakers are discussing House Bill 2052, which proposes truancy fines for parents of students with excessive unexcused absences. The bill aims to encourage school attendance and facilitate support for struggling families, rather than simply imposing penalties. While fines may reach up to $500, the focus remains on community engagement and assistance for students.
An orphaned cougar cub, found malnourished and dehydrated in Spokane, has been rescued and is now under the care of veterinary teams at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. This heartwarming story underscores the importance of wildlife conservation and the efforts made by animal care professionals. The cub's journey highlights both the challenges faced by wildlife and the commitment of organizations dedicated to their rehabilitation.
Crater Lake's Cleetwood Cove Trail will close after the summer of 2025 for construction, marking the last opportunity for swimming in the lake for several years. The trail is the only safe access point to the water, and during the closure from 2026 to 2029, only scientists will be permitted to access the lake. The rest of the park will remain open to visitors during this period.
The article discusses a significant FBI operation launched by the Justice Department aimed at addressing crime in Indian Country, particularly in Oregon. This initiative is especially pertinent given the ongoing scrutiny of FBI leadership under the Biden administration. The operation highlights the collaboration between federal authorities and tribal law enforcement to combat violent crime and missing indigenous persons.