Big Pink has new owner
Auto dealer Jeff Swickard places a big bet on Portland—and Oregon’s—future. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project Jeff…
Gov. Kotek prepares to launch reelection bid; Merkley not talking
U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley’s continued silence is fanning speculation he will not run. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism…
Man who wants to kill vote-by-mail in Oregon contests a May election result
Ben Edtl is working to save his job—and change the way Oregonians cast their ballots. BY NIGEL JAQUISS…
ODOT chief details layoffs in staff email
Kotek warns of dire consequences for Oregonians from funding shortfall. By Nigel Jaquiss Oregon Journalism Project …
Passage of Trump tax bill imperils Rose Quarter freeway expansion and caps
Although the bill rescinds “unobligated” funds, Albina Vision Trust remains optimistic about $488 million in federal highway grants. …
Drazan blasts ODOT messaging after legislative failure
As the agency prepares for layoffs, the House Republican leader chastises the department’s director. By Nigel Jaquiss…
Mysterious liquor privatization initiative moves forward
The Oregon Beer and Wine Distributors Association, which has opposed previous privatization attempts and opposes this one also…
Feds say Robert Pamplin Jr. dragged his feet in making pensioners whole
The industrialist admitted violating pension laws. As he slowly makes amends, other creditors are coming for him. …
ODOT layoffs will hit Key Democratic constituency
SEIU represents half of the Oregon Department of Transportation’s nearly 5,000 employees. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project…
Controversial Willamette Falls funding proceeds
The project rests in the district of Salem’s most powerful lawmaker. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project As…
Hunters and environmentalists join together to fight for lodging tax increase
The unlikely allies face opposition from the hospitality industry and legislative maneuvering. By JAMES NEFF Oregon Journalism Project…
Kotek vetoes three bills relating to child welfare
The governor plays hardball after the defeat of one of her priority bills. Lawmakers push back. BY…
Prevailing wage expansion advances with key questions unanswered
Trade unions strongly support extending higher-wage requirements to off-site fabrication but lawmakers—and legislative lawyers—don’t know whether or how…
GOP candidate for governor gets first big check
Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell gains support from a top Republican donor. The first big check in the…
Under pressure, Travel Oregon reveals CEO’s new salary
The agency will continue paying Todd Davidson handsomely in retirement. BY JAMES NEFF Oregon Journalism Project After…
Senate President boots dissident senator off Transportation Committee, appoints himself in bid to save bill
House Bill 2025 still faces a difficult path on House and Senate floors. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon…
Time running out on bill aimed at helping wildfire victims
Senate Bill 926 would pressure PacifiCorp to pay compensation before a federal tax break expires. BY NIGEL…
Travel Oregon officials give well-paid CEO retirement deal, but won’t divulge details
Todd Davidson ran the state tourism agency for three decades while making one of the highest salaries in…
Bottle Bill rules get changes in response to pushback
By Nigel Jaquiss Oregon Journalism Project The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission today ratified changes to the Bottle…
Oregon cities clash with travel industry over whether tourism taxes should pay for wear and tear on your favorite destinations
Hotel and travel marketing groups oppose a House bill that would let public dollars earmarked for tourism promotion…
Vanishing Act: Exits of Oregon companies speak to bigger problem for state
Editor’s note: Steve Duin, one of the most seasoned journalists in the state, has been the Sunday Metro…
As evictions soar, state to slash financial support for tenants
Lawmakers advance a proposed budget with a nearly 75% reduction in funds for preventing eviction and homelessness. …
New lawsuit aims to clarify whether state bond dollars trigger prevailing wages
The stakes are enormous for the development of affordable housing. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project In a…
OLCC ratifies Bottle Bill changes
Lawmakers have made changes in response to pushback from stores and their neighbors fed up with collateral…
Legislative Counsel clears Sen. Reynolds of conflict of interest
The Portland pediatrician introduced a bill that would increase compensation for her and other primary care providers. …