Rene Gonzalez Announces Bid For Portland Mayor

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

Update: Isaac Seavey, 27, Was Victim in Fatal Police Shooting in Northeast Portland

After recent policy changes, public access to details about the third deadly PPB shooting this year could be delayed for weeks.

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.

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.

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.

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

Axon lobbied city staff years before City Council approved a $2.6 million contract with the company

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.

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.

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.

Portland 2024 Mayoral Candidates

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

Portland City Council Candidates: District 4

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

Portland City Council Candidates: District 2

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

Portland City Council Candidates: District 3

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

Portland City Council Candidates: District 1

These candidates are running in the district encompassing East Portland.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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.

Portland Jewish Activists Rally for Cease-Fire in Gaza

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Oregon State Troopers Will Help Portland Police Patrol Downtown on Bikes

As part of a pilot project focused on fentanyl crackdowns, Oregon State Police have been assigned to assist Portland Police in downtown patrols.

Portland Set to Begin Work on First-of-Its-Kind Climate Investment Plan Financed by Clean Energy Fund

Portland is poised to spend $750 million over the next five years on climate projects through the city's clean energy fund. The spending plan comes as another city bureau is in peril. 

People For Portland Founder Sued By City Over Unpaid Business Taxes

Lawsuit against political consultant Kevin Looper is one of a trio filed by the city attorney in an attempt to collect unpaid business taxes and fees.

Portland City Commissioners Push Back on Mayor’s Plans For Government Transition

A fiery work session is just one example of clashes between city commissioners and mayor’s office over plans to prepare for a new, 12-person council

Amid Budget Crisis, Leaked PBOT Emails Deepen Public Distrust of Portland Transportation Leaders

Communication clashes and plans to alter a protected bike lane have sparked skepticism and scrutiny from community advocates and Metro.

Class-Action Lawsuit Challenges Portland's New Anti-Homeless Camping Ordinance

Attorneys with Oregon Law Center allege the city's rules violate state legislation aimed at preventing criminalization of homelessness.

Facing a $32 Million Shortfall, PBOT Leaders Issue Grim Forecast for Portland’s Transportation Future

Without an immediate lifeline, Portland’s transportation bureau is staring down hundreds of job losses, defrayed maintenance, and an end to its graffiti and derelict RV removal program.

New Research Finds No Link Between Measure 110 and Overdose Deaths

Research emerges amid heightened public scrutiny and new efforts to recriminalize hard drugs in Oregon

Portland Police Union Settles False Information Lawsuit Brought By Former Commissioner Hardesty

The lawsuit stemmed from a 2021 leak about Hardesty by police. A settlement was reached after a judge ruled the union president's actions were not protected speech.

Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell Will Step Down, as Mayor Announces Interim Chief

Lovell, who was appointed chief in 2020, said he never intended to serve as chief through retirement. He will move into a community engagement role at Portland Police Bureau.

New Oregon Law Requires Transparency From OHSU About Its Primate Research Center

After years of mishaps and notable animal deaths, new legislation aims to give the public more insight into a federally-funded testing site.

Portland Youths Call for Local, State Climate Action at Annual Climate Strike

Hundreds of Portlanders gathered Friday, Sept. 15 to demand Gov. Tina Kotek declare a climate emergency and take action against Zenith Energy.

With Politics in Rearview, Mayor Wheeler Announces ‘Doubling Down’ on Homeless, Economic Policies

Portland mayor says he's committed to ending homeless camping, boosting economy, and hiring interim city manager before leaving office.

Organizing Portland: Local Labor Organizers See Surge in Union Solidarity, Diversity

Independent union membership is growing at Portland retail stores, restaurants, and even strip clubs. Longstanding unions are also receiving community support.

Portland Mayor Wheeler Says He Won't Seek Another Term

Addressing questions about a reelection bid, Wheeler says city's current challenges will require all of his focus over the next 15 months.

TriMet Joins Portland's War on Drugs

After a study found negligible amounts of meth and fentanyl residue on transit, TriMet calls for a "crackdown." Experts recommend a more nuanced approach.

YOUR SUNDAY READING LIST: City Council Screws Up Again, Proof Portland Isn't Dying, and Ninja Supplies Desperately Needed!

The First Portland Area Detox Center Funded By Measure 110 Will Open Soon

It’s the first drug withdrawal center in the Portland metro region to focus on fentanyl addiction, and proof that Measure 110 efforts are paying off

Portland City Councilors Will Lobby For Change in State Law to Pave Way For Criminalization of Drugs

City leaders blame a loophole in state law for the scourge of fentanyl and meth addiction on Portland's streets. Experts caution a repeat of the failed War on Drugs.

YOUR SUNDAY READING LIST: The City Council Candidate Tsunami Approaches, Protecting Portland Trees, and Workers Push Back!

Missing the Forest and the Trees: How City Politics Are Getting in the Way of Portland’s Tree Canopy

Experts say trees play a key role in combating the effects of climate change, but Portland’s convoluted system has led to confusion and neglect.

The Race For Portland's Next City Council Has Already Begun

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.

2024 Election: Portland City Council Candidates Already Scrambling For Public Campaign Dollars

With new City Council districts confirmed, campaigns are already underway for 12 council seats.

Low Pay and High Consequences: PSU Adjuncts Say Treatment of Part-Time Instructors Reveals Institutional Problems

Adjunct faculty at Portland State University, currently bargaining for higher wages, say they aren't being fairly paid for their contribution to Portland's largest university.

Unionized Burgerville Workers Say Company is Illegally Retaliating Against Organizers

Union says contract negotiations with management have stalled, noting a recent one-day strike saw temporary workers hired at higher wages than permanent staff

YOUR SUNDAY READING LIST: Sketchy Legal Summons, Portland's New Districts, and Stock Up on Snacks, Stoner!

Long Live Outdoor Dining: Portland Takes Steps to Implement Permanent Street Seating Program

Outdoor dining became popular amongst Portland restaurant owners and customers during the pandemic. The Portland Bureau of Transportation wants to make it a permanent fixture on the streets.

Defendant Sued By Andy Ngo Says They Never Received Legal Summons Before Being Ordered To Pay $100,000

A Portlander is fighting the justice system after a right-wing blogger won a legal judgment against them for failing to appear in court. They say they never received proper legal notice.

Rapid Response Bio Clean Settles Lawsuit With Man Whose Property Was Thrown Away During Homeless Camp Sweep

Portland's contracted homeless campsite removal company was recently ordered to pay damages in another lawsuit stemming from the same 2020 sweep.

Portland Timbers Fire Head Coach Giovanni Savarese

Savarese leaves a club lacking both character and direction.

UPDATED: Charter Reform: District Commission Moving Ahead With Voting Map Combining Sellwood With West Side

The Independent District Commission is expected to vote to approve the Alder map, marking the next step in the city transition.

Public Apology Issued To Former Commissioner Hardesty After City Settles Lawsuit Over False Claims Leaked By Police

City of Portland agrees to pay Jo Ann Hardesty $5,000. Claims against police union and officers remain unresolved.

Amid Stifling Heat Wave, Multnomah County Lacks Dedicated Shelter Spaces

Despite 69 heat deaths in 2021 and more suspected deaths this week, cooling centers and resources aren't guaranteed.

No Money, No Justice: How Oregon's Refusal to Fairly Pay Court Experts Caused a Public Defense Crisis

Without public defense resources, attorneys say innocent people without financial means lack proper legal representation

Where To Go To Cool Off During Portland's Heat Wave

Cooling centers reopen Wednesday during state of emergency due to high temps. County health officials warn of toxic algae blooms in Willamette River. 

YOUR SUNDAY READING LIST: Traffic Violence, the Glory of Pickathon, and Is This Portland's Best Bagel?

Nurses at OHSU Say Hospital Has Ignored Critical Safety Gaps

As threats, shootings at hospitals increase, workers at Oregon’s largest health organization cite spotty safety measures.

Cops, Cameras, and "Safe Systems": The Debate About Curbing Traffic Violence on Portland's Streets

Portland continues to experience record-breaking numbers of traffic crash fatalities. With funding and political barriers, what's the best way to keep people safe on the streets?

Jury Rules Against Andy Ngo in Activist Lawsuit

Right-wing media figure sought damages stemming from attacks in Portland.

Portland Police Bureau Identifies Cops Who Killed Legacy Hospital Gunman

Three officers involved in July 22 fatal shooting remain on leave. The incident is the second deadly police shooting of 2023 in Portland.

Nearly 11,000 Oregonians Want City Leaders To Shore Up Portland Street Response

Petition shows outpouring of support for crisis response program, but budget constraints and employee morale still threaten its success

Powell's Workers, Fed Up With "Poverty Wages," Move Closer to a Strike

Employees at the world's largest independent bookstore voted to authorize a future strike, citing stagnant wages that diminish the value they bring to the beloved stores.

Before Fire, City Inspectors Warned Former Kmart Site Owners of Code Violations

The real estate company co-owned by an NFL team owner was told to board up the outer Northeast Portland property. Now, the company faces a class action lawsuit.

Protests and Threats Cast a Pall Over Oregon Pride Celebrations

Some see Oregon as a haven for queer rights, but emboldened anti-LGBTQ+ harassment ruined quite a few Pride events in 2023.

With Revenue Windfall, Portland Clean Energy Fund Committee Approves Climate Investment Plan

Despite past hiccups, PCEF is now on track to dole out $750 million on carbon cutting projects through 2028.

As WNBA Eyes Expansion, Supporters Push For Portland To Be the New Face of Women’s Basketball

Portland’s previous WNBA team folded. Can the Rose City’s ardent sports fans convince the right buyer to take the leap?

Police Delay Release of Information After Fatal Shooting of Hospital Gunman

Three Portland police officers fired at a suspect. It could be weeks before their names are published. Accountability advocates say the policy is out of line with other agencies and PPB's own internal directives.

Report: Company Hired to Board Up Properties Violated City Contract and Swindled Business Owners

Portland ombudsman says lack of city oversight led to multiple contract violations and billing discrepancies, costing vandalized businesses thousands.

Tusitala "Tiny" Toese Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for 2021 Proud Boys Brawl in Portland

Prosecutors asked judge for lengthy sentence, citing Toese's history of violence and arrest at politically-charged riots led by the Proud Boys.

Asbestos Found in Northeast Portland Fire Debris, Stoking Neighborhood Health Fears

A fire at a former Kmart building earlier this week spread toxic ash around the neighborhood. Nearby residents say it's another example of "repeated trauma" at the site.

Portland Has a New Plan for the Future of Urban Freight

City planners look to cargo bikes, improved rail crossings, and dedicated bike and truck lanes for improved safety and sustainability to move goods around Portland.

Rogue Commissioners' Plan to Subvert Voters With New Charter Reform Measure Falls Flat—For Now

Commissioner Dan Ryan backpedals on most of the new policies he and Commissioner Rene Gonzalez promoted in a proposal to overhaul the original charter reform measure—but is more interference with progressive policies on the way?

Commissioners Push for Last-Minute Charter Reform Changes in Chaotic Work Session

Pro-charter reform advocates showed up en masse to the meeting, decrying Commissioners Rene Gonzalez and Dan Ryan's proposed overhaul of the voter-approved measure.

Portland's First Temporary Mass Shelter Site Will Open This Month

Pods at the Clinton Triangle in Southeast Portland are a far cry from initial plans to corral up to 250 people in tents.

Gun Violence, Arts Tax, and Homeless Services: City Auditor Reveals What’s Going Under the Microscope

Portland City Auditor's Office will focus on auditing government functions that will have the greatest impact on residents.

OHSU Nurses Prepare For Possible Labor Strike

Health care workers say hospitals have failed to address chronic staffing issues, leading to strikes not seen in decades.