News

All articles tagged "News"
News Thu 12:50 PM

Auditors: Future of Historic Kenton Firehouse in Jeopardy After Mismanagement

A new report finds a city bureau failed to oversee management of the building. A state politician has been using the city-owned building rent-free since 2022.

News Thu 8:00 AM

City, County Leaders Unveil Plans to Cut Homeless Count By Half. Not Everyone Is On Board.

Joint efforts would see about $57 million spent to open 1,000 more shelter beds and a sobering center.

News Mar 13 8:00 AM

Despite Funding Windfalls, the Future of the Rose Quarter I-5 Project Remains Uncertain

ODOT says funding for freeway project could transform the Albina neighborhood. Critics say the transportation agency should cap the freeway to restore Albina— no need for more lanes on I-5.

— Advertisement —
News Mar 11 8:00 AM

Portland Eyes Another Round of Water and Sewer Rate Hikes

If approved, Portland households would pay 6.24 percent more for water and sewer services, starting July 1. The Portland Utility Board has questions.

Opinion Mar 8 11:50 AM

STREET VIEW: “The Bike Lanes That Drive Everybody Crazy”

Portland needs a more clear-eyed vision for transportation.

News Mar 7 5:15 PM

Multnomah County Board of Commissioners Adopts Gaza Cease-Fire Resolution

County leaders unanimously approved a resolution after amendments, contentious back-and-forth between commissioners and the public

— Advertisement —
News Mar 7 12:45 PM

Grab-and-Go Food and Beverage Kiosks at the Moda Center Spark OLCC Inquiry

Stores using Amazon technology to sell self-service alcohol are trying to comply with state laws. One employee says it’s not going well.

News Mar 6 8:00 AM

UPDATED: Loud, Polluting Leaf Blowers Are on Their Way Out of Portland

Portland City Council unanimously approved an ordinance to ban gas-powered leaf blowers starting in 2026.

City Council Race 2024 Mar 5 8:57 PM

Portland 2024 Mayoral Candidates

Here's who wants to be Portland's next mayor.

— Advertisement —
News Mar 1 6:20 PM

Multnomah County Commissioners Poised to Vote on Gaza Cease-Fire Resolution

The resolution, introduced by Commissioner Lori Stegmann, has been in the works for the last month. But pro-Palestine organizers are disappointed by what they see as a watered-down statement.

News Feb 29 2:11 PM

Portlanders Gather for Community Vigil After Death of Nex Benedict

Non-binary teen’s death in Oklahoma sparked questions about school bullying, while shining a light on the needs of LGBTQ+ youth

News Feb 28 1:15 PM

Update: Multnomah County Animal Services Clarifies its Euthanasia Practices Following Policy Changes and Questions

Amid long-standing capacity limitations and a lengthy list of audit recommendations, some say the county's animal shelter problems reflect broader government dysfunction.

City Council Race 2024 Feb 27 3:04 PM

Portland City Council Candidates: District 3

These candidates are running in the district located mostly in inner Southeast Portland.

City Council Race 2024 Feb 27 8:36 AM

Here's Who's Running for Portland City Council in 2024

As the city gears up for a new government structure and a 12-person council, candidates are kicking off campaigns for a pivotal 2024 election.

City Council Race 2024 Feb 26 7:53 PM

Portland City Council Candidates: District 4

These candidates are running in the district composed of Portland's west side and some Southeast neighborhoods.

News Feb 26 4:15 PM

Parkrose High School Students Speak Out Against Planned Freight Development

After years of neglect and environmental injustice, Northeast Portland teens want to turn the tide on plans for a diesel warehouse they say will pollute their school neighborhood

News Feb 23 4:28 PM

Proposed Ballot Measure Would Tank Portland’s New Police Accountability Board

A pro-cop attorney wants voters to throw out a police oversight measure approved in 2020, and return to the status quo.

News Feb 21 6:45 PM

Charter Reform: City Approves Lucrative Salary, Severance Packages for Temporary Managers

Portland's new governing structure calls for a handful of deputy city administrators. Commissioners aren't sure they can recruit them.

News Feb 20 4:00 PM

Portland Rideshare Drivers Call for Government Reform to Fix Unfair Working Conditions

Workers cite low pay, a lack of fare transparency, and differences in worker protections in Oregon and Washington. Advocates say the path to change is through government action.

News Feb 15 2:05 PM

At Long Last, Portland's Bike Ridership Is on the Mend. What Now?

After an alarming report last year revealed a major drop in cycling, Portland’s bike advocates want to change the narrative.

News Feb 14 1:28 PM

Emergency Warming Shelters Opening Wednesday Night

Multnomah County announces four shelters and extra beds will open around the region as snow is predicted for some areas

News Feb 13 2:04 PM

Despite Being Safe From Deep Budget Cuts, Fire Bureau Puts Mental Health Services on Chopping Block

Amid ballooning firefighter overtime and retirement costs, Portland Fire & Rescue looks to slash Portland Street Response funding.

News Feb 10 5:49 PM

Former Pro Wrestler Arrested on Suspicion of Shooting Wife in Couple's Lents Home

William A. Haynes, AKA Billy Jack Haynes, in custody after standoff with police at Southeast Portland home where Janette Becraft was found dead

News Feb 9 12:15 PM

Commissioner Rubio Faces Pushback for Proposal to Support Portland Street Response with Clean Energy Funds

Rubio has offered PSR a lifeline from the Portland Clean Energy Fund. Critics say Rubio is treating PCEF like a slush fund to boost her political aspirations.

News Feb 8 6:15 AM

Portland Aims to Have 780 Village-Style Shelter Beds Open by End of 2024

New humanitarian operations director says city will prioritize wraparound services to get people out of shelter and into housing.

News Feb 6 7:00 AM

Darcelle XV Plaza, Formerly O’Bryant Square, Ignites Heated Debate About Public Space

The blighted downtown site is scheduled to make a comeback in 2025. Some worry plans are being heavily steered by the nearby Ritz-Carlton and other private interests.

News Feb 5 5:19 PM

Multnomah County Commissioners Clash Over Fentanyl Emergency Declaration

Commissioner Sharon Meieran blasts 90-day fentanyl emergency as "baloney resolution" with no mechanism for results

News Feb 1 3:15 PM

PBOT Reveals Plan for Major 82nd Avenue Redesign

The transportation bureau released draft design documents for the dangerous east Portland arterial, showing potential for significant change on the street.

News Feb 1 1:40 PM

Rene Gonzalez Holds Sizable Fundraising Lead in Portland Mayor’s Race

With the city's Small Donor Elections program facing a budget shortfall, campaigns may have to adjust their strategy ahead of a pivotal election.

News Jan 29 11:55 AM

New Report Highlights Major Gaps in Portland Region's Shelter, Housing, and Services for LGBTQ+ Residents

Despite Portland's reputation as a queer-friendly city, barriers to housing and shelter leave vulnerable people displaced.

News Jan 25 5:35 PM

Dan Ryan Will Run for City Council in District 2

While his colleagues run for mayor, Ryan is aiming to continue serving as a city council member.

News Jan 25 12:54 PM

As Crime and Murder Rates Drop in Portland, Mayor Wheeler Pushes a New Narrative

As the Rose City reports a recent decline in gun violence and violent crime, the mayor and police chief say the city is “on the right track.” Will it be enough to convince the naysayers?

News Jan 25 11:00 AM

“Portland Cannot Wait”: City Council Will Refer Gas Tax Renewal to the May Ballot

Portland transportation leaders see the 10-cent per gallon gas tax as flawed, but necessary. Whether it’s renewed for another four years is now in voters’ hands.

News Jan 24 7:30 PM

Activists Disrupt Portland City Council Meeting, Demand Cease-Fire Resolution

Other major US cities, like Atlanta, Detroit, and Providence, have passed resolutions calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza.

News Jan 24 7:30 AM

Portland City Council to Mull High-Stakes Gas Tax Renewal

The 10-cent per gallon Fixing Our Streets gas tax has been an integral part of PBOT's budget since 2016. It's even more important now.

News Jan 23 10:54 AM

Key Hire In City’s New Management Team Announced, to the Surprise of City Leaders

Rene Gonzalez appointed a former fire chief to oversee Portland’s public safety bureaus. The mayor’s office says the move was premature.

News Jan 19 3:38 PM

Portland Takes Rehab on the Road

Following in the footsteps of Maryland and California, Portland Fire & Rescue unveils mobile opioid use treatment program administered by paramedics.

News Jan 19 1:30 PM

Portland's Plan To Spur Housing Development by Relaxing Regulations Has Political Implications

The code change discussions underscored key differences amongst Portland City Council members— some of whom are competing for the mayoral seat this year.

News Jan 16 2:56 PM

UPDATE: Warming Shelters Will Remain Open Tuesday Night

Medical examiner now investigating four suspected hypothermia deaths as county braces for freezing rain.

News Jan 16 2:32 PM

UPDATED: Power Restored For Most Households Amid Severe Winter Weather

At least 31,000 PGE customers still without power early Tuesday afternoon. TriMet has resumed MAX Blue Line operations, but all other light rail lines remain suspended.

News Jan 12 2:50 PM

Police Arrest 20 Jewish Activists and Allies During Demonstration in Downtown Portland Supporting Palestine

Protesters staged a sit-in amid International Court of Justice hearings accusing Israel of genocide.

News Jan 12 1:22 PM

Suspected Vehicle Arson Investigated at the Home of Portland City Commissioner

District attorney suggests political motives, after someone set fire to a parked car in front of Rene Gonzalez's home in Eastmoreland.

News Jan 11 1:10 PM

Commissioner Gonzalez Shows Little Interest in Heeding Auditor's Recommendations for Portland Street Response

Portlanders championed non-police, alternative response programs to help relieve emergency resources. Auditors say poor leadership threatens their future.

News Jan 10 3:00 PM

A $1.7 Million Federal Grant Will Jumpstart Portland's Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

The grant will help fund a plan to make pay-as-you-go electric car chargers more accessible around the city.

News Jan 9 10:22 PM

Auditor: County Contracting Rules Bent to Favor Seattle-Based Nonprofit

A Multnomah County auditor's memo notes staff felt "pressured" by Susheela Jayapal, now running for Congress, to alter an application process to benefit Housing Connector, which later landed a lucrative contract.

Comedy Jan 9 1:08 PM

Why Are People Protesting Michael Rapaport's Portland Comedy Shows?

Until recently he was yelling about Taylor Swift, but now it's all about Israel, Hamas, and Gaza.

News Jan 9 10:38 AM

Carmen Rubio Enters 2024 Portland Mayor's Race

The city commissioner is the third person on council to launch a campaign for mayor under Portland's new form of government.

Transportation Jan 9 8:15 AM

Portland, Prepare For a Six-Week MAX Disruption

Green, Blue, and Red Line MAX train service will be impacted through the end of February as TriMet finishes construction for "A Better Red" project.

News Jan 5 12:45 PM

With $14.25 Million in Backing, Central City Concern Moving at Lightning Speed to Open New Drug Treatment Center

A trifecta of government agencies is chipping in to buy LoLo Pass hotel and convert it to a residential treatment center. Hotel owners are staying quiet about the transaction.

News Jan 5 8:30 AM

Healthcare Workers Rally Near OHSU Hospital Urging Cease-Fire in Gaza

Local staff say Portland health institutions have been silent, even as others around the US speak out.

News Jan 3 5:30 PM

Steel Bridge Skatepark Will Finally See the Light of Day

On the backburner since 2008, Portland officials announce $15 million in funding for a new skatepark in Old Town.

News Jan 3 1:30 PM

Fire at Portland Mercado Temporarily Closes All Businesses

The community hub and food cart pod's beer-and-wine bar Barrio was destroyed by the blaze.

News Dec 27 9:41 PM

Update: Man Killed by Police in Mall 205 Target Parking Lot Identified as 33-Year-Old Tyrone Lee Johnson II

Police say they fired at a man who ran from them after trying to steal merchandise.

News Dec 23 4:30 PM

Report: 315 People Died While Homeless in Multnomah County in 2022

The annual "Domicile Unknown" report shows a sharp uptick in deaths of residents living without stable housing. Some point to disconnects in local government as catalysts.

News Dec 21 11:38 AM

Update: Officer Who Killed Man Outside NE Portland Food Processing Plant Identified

The officer who shot 27-year-old Isaac Seavey in Northeast Portland on December 6 has been with the police bureau for 22 years. This isn't his first fatal shooting.

News Dec 20 1:46 PM

Jail Deputies Charged With Misconduct As Sheriff Orders Independent Reviews

Prosecutors say two Multnomah County corrections deputies failed to perform their job duties, contributing to two inmate deaths. Seven inmates have died in the county's jails this year.

News Dec 20 8:43 AM

From Portugal to Portland: How Drug Decriminalization is Playing Out in Two Different Countries

A recent trip by lawmakers, police and other leaders provided insight into what it takes to treat drug use as a health issue

News Dec 17 11:40 AM

Former City Commissioner Steve Novick Eyes Return to City Hall

Novick is running to represent District 3, after a former stint on Portland City Council.

News Dec 15 4:30 PM

The Portland Clean Energy Fund Is Fast Becoming the City’s Fiscal Lifeline

New projections show PCEF will have access to about $1.2 billion over the next five years, giving fund leaders the opportunity to greatly expand its clean energy programming.

News Dec 14 12:44 PM

Governor Kotek’s Central City Task Force Plan, Developed Behind Closed Doors, Gets Mixed Reviews

Task force plan recommends major public policy changes, but the public was barred from providing input or attending meetings.

News Dec 12 11:41 AM

Employees at Portland Japanese Garden Report Pay Inequity and Racist Language from Management

Staff at the nonprofit say they’ve been retaliated against for speaking up about their concerns at work.

News Dec 7 2:30 PM

Rene Gonzalez Announces Bid For Portland Mayor

Known for his conservative policies, Gonzalez is the second on council to announce a 2024 mayoral campaign.

Teachers Strike Dec 4 4:57 PM

The Portland Teachers’ Strike Is Over. The Conversation About Oregon’s Education System Is Just Heating Up.

With the unprecedented strike resolved, teachers are calculating the return on investment. School leaders are lambasting the state’s school funding formula.

News Dec 4 11:45 AM

Dan Ryan Rules Out Running for Portland Mayor

The city commissioner will decide whether to run for a council district by late January, as speculation swirls over who might challenge Mingus Mapps in 2024 race.

News Dec 1 3:48 PM

Officers Who Shot Legacy Hospital Suspect Cleared By Grand Jury

Three Portland officers involved in the fatal shooting of a man suspected of killing a Legacy Good Samaritan security guard in July won't face criminal charges.

News Nov 30 9:30 AM

A Decade After Federal Directives, Portland Police Will Start Using Body Cameras Full-Time

Axon lobbied city staff years before City Council approved a $10 million contract with the company

News Nov 29 3:28 PM

PPS and the Teachers' Union Ratified a Contract Agreement. Now What?

While the teachers' strike is officially over, questions remain over calendar changes, and students are frustrated after being left out of decision making.

Teachers Strike Nov 26 6:47 PM

With a Tentative Agreement Reached Between PPS and Teachers' Union, Students Will Return To School

If the union and school board approve the tentative agreement, the historic Portland Public Schools strike will officially come to an end.

News Nov 22 11:40 AM

Jewish Activists Blockade Rep. Earl Blumenauer's Portland Office For Second Time in Two Weeks

Hours before an Israel/Hamas truce announcement, protesters pressured the Oregon congressman to follow Sen. Jeff Merkley’s call for a cease-fire in Gaza.

City Council Race 2024 Nov 21 12:53 PM

Portland City Council Candidates: District 2

These candidates are running in the district located in North and Northeast Portland.

City Council Race 2024 Nov 21 12:51 PM

Portland City Council Candidates: District 1

These candidates are running in the district encompassing East Portland.

News Nov 20 7:12 PM

Disagreement About Class Size Decisions Fueling Teachers’ Strike Stalemate

Amid weeks-long strike, the teachers’ union says parents should help make decisions about how many students can be enrolled in a class. PPS board members disagree.

News Nov 20 7:09 PM

Protesters Picket Boeing Over Weapons Shipments to Israel

Activists blocked entrances at Boeing’s Gresham plant, saying the company needs to be held accountable for its role in the Hamas/Israel war that has killed thousands.

Teachers Strike Nov 17 4:25 PM

After the Teachers’ Strike, How Will PPS Make Up For Lost Time?

The strike is still ongoing, but concerns about students meeting educational requirements are taking hold.

News Nov 17 8:34 AM

City Council Watered Down Police Oversight Approved by Voters, Advisory Group Says

Members of Portland's Police Accountability Commission lambast city's proposed code revisions, which now call for police to help shape oversight board.

News Nov 16 2:27 PM

City Hopes Clean Energy Funds Will Help End Teachers Strike as It Surpasses the Two-Week Mark

With Thanksgiving Break days away, PPS and the teachers' union still haven't reached a contract agreement. City officials hope fast-tracked clean energy funds will help.

News Nov 15 11:05 AM

Portland City Council Says Au Revoir to Meetings at City Hall Until 2025

Amid remodel of council chambers, councilors will meet virtually until January, when in-person meetings resume at city's 1900 Building.

Politics Nov 10 2:18 PM

Portland Activists Stage Sit-In at Rep. Blumenauer’s Office In Hopes He'll Support a Cease-Fire in Gaza

Activists hope Blumenauer, a longtime progressive, will eventually be responsive to their demands.

News Nov 9 12:09 PM

"We Don't Cross Picket Lines": Benson High School Construction Workers Walk Off The Job In Solidarity With Striking Teachers

"We aren’t gonna build this thing if [PPS] doesn't meet their demands," one union electrician said.

Police Oversight Nov 8 4:23 PM

City Council Approves Independent Monitor to Watch Over Cops

The monitor will determine if Portland Police remain compliant with the DOJ’s demands regarding the bureau’s excessive use of force.

News Nov 7 4:39 PM

DOJ Wants Independent Monitor to Watch Over Portland Police

The independent monitor would oversee practices and training for Portland Police following years of bureau missteps.

Teachers Strike Nov 7 4:08 PM

PPS Unions Representing Administrative, Cafeteria, and Custodial Workers Request Mediation

The PPS labor relations crisis isn't limited to the ongoing teachers' strike.

Teachers Strike Nov 6 8:01 PM

In Week Two of Teachers' Strike, State Legislators Align With Union

PPS leaders tried to petition state lawmakers for more education funding to meet teachers' demands. The strategy may have backfired.

News Nov 3 4:52 PM

Oregon Legislators to Portland Public Schools: "Take the Reins" and Handle the Strike

State lawmakers aren't jumping at the opportunity to reallocate state funds to end the teacher strike.

News Nov 3 3:46 PM

City Council Won’t Let Go of Bureau Control as Charter Reform Transition Continues

In the race to implement government changes, commissioners break with the mayor over a timeline for bringing in deputy city administrators.

News Nov 3 7:20 AM

Portland’s Palestinian Diaspora Says Gaza is ‘More Than Its Suffering’

With Gaza under assault, local Palestinians reflect on the cycle of displacement that’s now preventing some residents from fleeing their war-torn homes

News Nov 2 12:21 PM

Amid Teachers' Strike, Other Portland Public Schools Staff File Grievance With District

Members of the Portland Federation of School Professionals say the district has asked them to perform work outside their contract.

News Nov 1 8:05 PM

Portland Teachers’ Strike: District Asks State For Money; Teachers Say “Hold The Line”

With each group pointing to a different solution for the district’s funding woes, the stalemate between teachers and Portland Public Schools won’t let up.

News Nov 1 12:20 PM

No School November? Portland Teachers Begin First-Ever Strike

All PPS schools are closed indefinitely, after teachers union and school district failed to come to an agreement in time to avoid a strike.

News Oct 31 8:39 AM

Portland Will Begin Enforcing Daytime Homeless Camping Restrictions in Mid-November

As mayor calls for more cops downtown, a controversial camping ban is about to be tested.

News Oct 30 5:03 PM

"Free, Free Palestine": Portlanders Rally for Gazans, Ask Local Politicians to Support Cease-Fire

A rally on October 28 was the latest in a string of local protests supporting Palestine.

News Oct 30 7:30 AM

With the HollywoodHUB project, TriMet Embraces a New Vision for Public Transportation

The project— a collaboration with BRIDGE Housing and Hacienda CDC— will add hundreds of affordable housing units to Portland’s Hollywood neighborhood.

News Oct 27 11:08 AM

Portland Jewish Activists Rally for Cease-Fire in Gaza

As Oregon’s elected leaders convey steadfast support for Israel, protests highlight civilian casualties.

News Oct 26 10:58 AM

Oregon’s New Fentanyl Law Paves the Way For Increased Drug Arrests

Shortly after the governor ordered state troopers to help patrol downtown Portland, police report multi-agency fentanyl bust.

Housing Oct 26 9:00 AM

Churches as Housing Developers: A North Portland Church Is Using Its Property For Affordable Housing

Portsmouth Commons offers 20 low-income units for veterans—on the same property as Portsmouth Union Church.

News Oct 19 5:15 PM

Legacy Health Security Guards Tackled, Tased Man While Pointing Weapon at Bystanders

Amid heightened security following the death of a hospital guard, officers at Legacy Emanuel tased and arrested a man, alleging assault.

News Oct 19 11:29 AM

UPDATE: As Portland Public Schools and Teachers Union Stall on Negotiations, District Prepares for Unprecedented Strike

Despite offers of higher salaries, the school district and teachers union remain hundreds of millions of dollars apart in contract negotiations.

Teachers Strike Oct 12 3:15 PM

As PPS Teachers Inch Closer to a Strike, Staff Across the District Ask for Better Treatment

Portland’s teachers union says educators are being priced out of the city, and class sizes are too big. Meanwhile, other public school employees are also struggling with their contract negotiations.

News Oct 10 8:07 PM

A Low-Income Housing Complex Was Lauded as a Model for Pulling People Out of Homelessness. Three Years Later, Tenants Are Fleeing.

Residents at Argyle Gardens in Portland’s Kenton neighborhood report neglect, rampant theft, and habitability issues. Some are now back in shelters.

Transportation Oct 6 4:39 PM

Without a Strong Ally in City Hall, Frog Ferry Project Loses Buoyancy

The dream of a ferry may not be alive in Portland…at least for now.