Willamette Valley News, Friday 1/17 – Lane County Awards $200,000 in Grants to Support Economic Development, Missing Woman from Hilyard Street Sought & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com

Friday, January 17, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

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Lane County Awards $200,000 in Grants to Support Economic Development

Eight local nonprofits will receive grant funding from Lane County’s Community & Economic Development Program to support programs and projects focused on economic development.

Everyone Village Welcome Center

“There is a wide range of needs across all of our communities when it comes to creating more economic opportunity,” said Jason Harris, Lane County’s Community & Economic Development manager. “We are excited about these grants because they support organizations helping people and communities succeed and thrive – which improves lives and increases prosperity.”

Grant applications were accepted in November of 2024. Cities and 501c3 nonprofits serving Lane County were eligible to apply for funding to help attract and expand business investment; support small businesses, start-ups and emerging entrepreneurs; or assist with workforce training. Applicants could request $5,000–$30,000.

“Lane County’s investment in the Everyone Village medical clinic project is THE crucial piece to getting this collective impact story off the ground,” said Everyone Village Pastor & Village Lead Gbe Piechowicz. “Working to help the West Eugene community succeed and flourish, we will bring together high school students from Team Oregon Build, medical professionals from Volunteers in Medicine & PeaceHealth and folks from Everyone Village and its neighborhood to help each other’s lives improve and the whole community increase in its prosperity.”

The eight grant recipients are:

Plaza de Nuestra Comunidad – $29,500
This program, serving Latinx immigrant entrepreneurs, including indigenous populations, provides services to entrepreneurs, start-ups, and small businesses via the Cambios Business Program. The Cambios Business Program provides a wide range of services including: teaching a business class; supporting entrepreneurs with one-on-one technical assistance; offering opportunities to connect to capital; and hosting community workshops.

Center for Rural Livelihoods – $21,000

The Center for Rural Livelihoods’ (CRL) Regenerative Land Stewardship Economy in South Lane County provides workforce development, technical assistance, and business incubation for rural entrepreneurs.  Funding will support facility improvements for the 40-acre campus near Cottage Grove and retail space for small businesses in downtown Cottage Grove.

Daisy CHAIN – $27,000

Daisy CHAIN (DC)’s project will expand equitable workforce development in reproductive healthcare in Lane County, Oregon. Strategic actions involve securing clinical placements, collaborating with organizations serving communities of color, and providing ongoing training.

Everyone Village – $29,750

This project aims to expand the construction capabilities of Team Oregon Build (TOB) students at Everyone Village by developing a modular medical clinic to serve village residents. In partnership with Volunteers in Medicine (VIM), this clinic will provide on-site primary healthcare, addressing a significant need for accessible services among Lane County’s underserved communities while also providing career technical education in high demand trades for youth.

RAIN Catalysts – $26,000

RAIN Catalysts’ Rural Entrepreneurial Development Program connects hundreds of Lane County entrepreneurs, aspiring founders, and innovators to the key resources they need to start and grow their businesses in Lane County.

Connected Lane County – $15,250

Connect Lane County partners with urban and rural Lane County schools and businesses to support 700 youth interested in vocational opportunities to explore careers in technology, manufacturing, health, and natural resources through engaging, interactive tours highlighting professionals from diverse backgrounds.

Opportunity Oregon – $25,000

Opportunity Oregon will serve over 100 previously incarcerated adult job seekers and 30 employers annually in Lane County. Services and activities include peer mentorship, career workshops, resume and cover letter preparation, application assistance, social service referrals, employer education and discussion sessions.

McKenzie Community Land Trust – $26,500

Blue River seeks to establish the Blue River Welcome Station to spur economic development in the area. The station includes a kiosk offering history and photos of recovery, a community bulletin board, a nice portable bathroom, picnic tables, local art, flowers and more. This station seeks to spur tourism in the area and be a homebase for future commercial growth.

There were 33 eligible applications submitted and reviewed with a collective request of nearly $1 million. Applications were reviewed by a multi-agency committee. The funding for the grants comes from video lottery funds received by Lane County to support economic development.

Eugene Police Department – Missing Woman from Hilyard Street Sought

An independent living facility contacted Eugene Police after one of its residents was not located on premises since 6:30 p.m. yesterday, January 15. Staff was unable to locate her this morning and EPD is reaching out for tips on her whereabouts.

Peggy Sue Hay is described as a 76-year-old white female, 5`07” tall and weighing approximately 130 pounds, with shoulder length grey hair and blue eyes. She was possibly wearing a black and white speckled fabric coat. She likely had her purse and cell phone. She moved into the facility on January 11 and is unfamiliar with the area, having come from Nevada.

Eugene Police has been searching for Hay to make sure of her welfare. Her phone last pinged near Hilyard Community Center, 2580 Hilyard Street, but after a search, she was not located there. It is possible Hay took a bus out of the area, or checked into a hotel, but her capacity to do so is not clear at this time as she appeared to be struggling cognitively.

The attached photos are about five years old. If anyone has information on her whereabouts, they are asked to call the EPD non-emergency line at 541.682.5111Case 25-00889

Eugene Police Department –  Mission Accomplished!

Thanks to your generosity, 1,252 hoodies have officially been delivered! Students at Sheldon, South Eugene, Willamette, Churchill, and North Eugene, Kalapuya, Bethel and 4J High Schools in need will now have warm, comfortable hoodies to get them through the winter.

This wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible community—every donation, every shared post, and every volunteer made this happen. Thank you, Eugene, for showing up and making a difference! #HoodiesForHighSchoolers

Help Create A New Strategic Plan For Lane County Online Survey

Lane County Government

Lane County is updating its three-year strategic plan for 2025–2027 and wants residents to give input through an online survey.

“Our Strategic Plan is the blueprint for where we focus our efforts to improve lives in Lane County,” said County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky. “We want feedback from our residents so we can be sure our priorities align with our communities’ needs and expectations.”

Community members are invited to take an online survey at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/StrategicPlan. It should take 10–15 minutes. Responses are anonymous.

This survey will help Lane County:

  • Understand its strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities as a community.
  • Identify areas where Lane County can better serve residents.
  • Shape a shared vision for the next three years and beyond.

Your feedback will directly influence Lane County’s strategic priorities, ensuring they align with the needs and aspirations of our residents.

The Strategic Plan was last updated in 2022 and focuses on four priority areas:

  • Safe, Healthy County
  • Vibrant Communities
  • Robust Infrastructure
  • Our People & Organizational Health

Examples of successful initiatives under the most recent Strategic Plan include renewal of the 5-year public safety levy; investment in new Permanent Supportive Housing projects through partnership with Homes for Good; progress toward the Lane Stabilization Center to increase behavioral health resources in our local community; and passing the levy to support investment in Lane County’s parks. — Review the current Strategic Plan at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/StrategicPlan.

1/15/25 – LCSO Case #25-0232 – Deputies Arrest DUI Suspect Outside Lane County Public Service Building

On January 15th at about 7:30 a.m., a Lane County Sheriff’s sergeant noticed an illegally parked vehicle outside the Lane County Public Service Building (PSB) in the area of Pearl Street and 8th Avenue. The vehicle belonged to William Ray Lighty, 38, of Junction City. Lighty had been reported the night before as suicidal and possibly armed with a handgun. He appeared to be sleeping in the driver’s seat.

Due to the prior report and proximity to the PSB, several deputies responded and used a drone to inspect the vehicle from the outside. Lighty was initially uncooperative, but then complied with instructions from deputies and was safely detained. A search of the vehicle revealed ammunition, but no firearms.   Deputies observed signs Lighty was impaired. After further investigation, he was arrested for DUI and lodged at the Lane County Jail.

Benton County And OSU Extension Offer No-cost Domestic Well Testing

CORVALLIS, ORE.— Benton County Health Department is partnering with Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service to offer domestic well testing at no cost to households in Benton County. The goal of the partnership is to test up to 200 domestic wells in Benton County by June 30, 2025 through a well water safety program. 

The program involves an OSU intern collecting samples from the wells of participants and testing the samples for arsenic, coliform bacteria, and nitrate, all of which can cause health issues if not properly treated. After collection, the samples will be analyzed, and program participants will be invited to free community educational seminars to learn how to interpret results and what to do if these contaminants are detected in their well water samples. 

“It’s important to test your water regularly, since these contaminants have the potential to cause short- and long- term health issues,” said Chrissy Lucas, Outreach Program Coordinator for OSU Extension. “You can’t see, smell or taste these in your water, so testing is the only way to know if these contaminants are present.” 

OUS Extension is planning to host free community educational seminars in the following locations, and more details including dates and venues will be shared when available: 

  • Monroe/Alpine 
  • Alsea 
  • Philomath 
  • Blodgett/Kings Valley 

Households in rural communities and those who meet low-income thresholds are a priority for this program and will be given preference based on level of need. 

“Approximately 23% of Oregonians use private wells as their primary source of drinking water,” said Scott Kruger, Environmental Health Manager for Benton County. “We are thrilled to partner with OSU Extension to offer this vital service, especially at no-cost to community members.”  

People interested in participating in the program should submit an interest form at: https://beav.es/GZh

For questions, please contact Chrissy Lucas at issy.lucas@oregonstate.edu” rel=”noreferrer noopener” style=”font-size: 14px; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;” target=”_blank”>Chrissy.lucas@oregonstate.edu or 541-713-5009. 

### Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Lane County Sheriff’s Office arrests Eugene man during Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation

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On January 14th, Lane County Sheriff’s detectives served a search warrant at a residence south of Eugene. The search warrant stemmed from an investigation by the Lane County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, focusing on child exploitation.

The suspect, Andrew John Hruby, 20, was contacted and arrested. Hruby was lodged at the Lane County Jail on ten counts of Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the 1st Degree.

Currently there is no indication of any local victims involved in the case, and the charges are for the possession, not production, of child pornography.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office received assistance during this investigation from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Springfield Police Department, Oregon State Police, and the Oregon Department of Justice.

This arrest is part of an ongoing effort by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable members of our community. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time. 1/14/25 – LCSO Case #25-0070

Lane County Sheriff’s deputies attempt to locate prolific burglar in Veneta area

In October of 2024, a restaurant, residence, and market in the Veneta area were all burglarized within a two-week period. Deputies identified one of the suspects as Austin James Blaylock, 30, of Veneta.

Deputies served search warrants at two residences associated with Blaylock in the Veneta area and located evidence linking him to the crimes. Blaylock was arrested and lodged at the Lane County Jail on two counts of Burglary in the 1st Degree, four counts of Burglary in the 2nd Degree, five counts of Theft in the 1st Degree, Theft in the 2nd Degree, and Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree. Blaylock is still in custody as of January 14th.

Deputies identified Charles Guy Younkin-Stec, 33, of Veneta, as an additional suspect in the burglaries. Deputies applied for and were granted a search warrant at his trailer, located in the 88300 block of Ridiculous Road. Before deputies served the search warrant, Crow High School was burglarized. More than $10,000 dollars worth of items were stolen.

Deputies served the warrant on Younkin-Stec’s trailer. Evidence was discovered linking him to each of the previous burglaries, including the burglary of the high school, as well as a recent burglary of an RV storage facility and an older burglary of Crow High School. Deputies learned Linn County discovered evidence linking Younkin-Stec to a residential burglary from earlier in the summer.

Deputies have been unable to locate and arrest Younkin-Stec for the seven listed burglaries, in part because of the lack of cooperation from area residents associated with him. Younkin-Stec has caused substantial hardships and financial loss to Veneta-area businesses, residents, and our students. Anyone with information on Younkin-Stec’s location is asked to call the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141.

Sweet Home Police Department Arrest Man for Murder After Girlfriend’s Death Initially Ruled Suicide

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On January 13th, 2025, at about 3:24 p.m. Sweet Home Police Department Detective Potter arrested Jerod L. Norman (40) for Abuse of a Corpse in the 1st Degree, and Murder in the 2nd Degree. The arrest was made after a months-long investigation into the death of Jerod’s girlfriend, Mariah A. King (30) on July 18th, 2024, which occurred at their shared residence, 2241 Nandina Street, Sweet Home.

The death initially appeared to be a suicide, but SHPD investigators arranged for a postmortem examination and a foreign object was discovered inside the victim’s body.The victim’s family has been notified of the arrest in this case. Investigators are still seeking contact with Jerod’s father, David L. Norman (65), for a secondary interview. David is encouraged to contact Detective Potter by phone or in person at the Sweet Home Police Department. No further details will be made public at this time.

Two women stabbed near W. 2nd and Madison

At 7:49 p.m. on January 11, Eugene Police officers responded to W. 2nd Avenue and Madison Street after two women in their 20s were reported to have been stabbed. Eugene Springfield Fire also responded and transported both victims to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The two women reported they were walking north on the west side of Madison Street. A man standing next to a large tree began to follow them. During this, he attempted to rob them, making punching motions toward them, stabbing them. The victims ran and hid inside one of their vehicles.

The suspect is described as a white male adult approximately in his 40s, 5`06” tall, with a medium build and broad shoulders. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt, beanie, and black jacket and tan cargo pants. He had curly blonde, shoulder-length hair, and a brownish blonde beard. None of the victims recognized the man. Eugene Police Violent Crimes Unit is investigating the case. Case 25-00592

Federal Funding Of $30 Million Goes Towards Highway 126 Improvements Near Veneta and Elmira

Oregon U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (D-Ore.) said on Thursday that $30,259,024 in federal funding was allocated to construction work on a two-mile section of OR 126 between Huston Road and Lakeside Drive near Veneta and Elmira.

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Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) indicated that the decision was made to give rural Oregonians quality and dependable roads.

Officials indicated that the U.S. DOT’s Rural Surface Transportation Grant program, which is funding this project, was established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support rural infrastructure projects nationwide, state officials said.

The federal funds will go towards roundabout construction, widening the road between the intersections from two to four lanes, construction of wider shoulders, a new left-turn lane at Lakeside Drive, and railroad crossing improvements at the Huston Road intersection. Rep.

Voyle confirmed that the funding is critical to improving the safety of the highway and ensuring the infrastructure remains dependable for Oregonians. She said, “The project is critical to ensuring safe driving conditions for motorists.”

Suspicious death ruled homicide, victim identified as missing woman, and suspect in custody — UPDATE

Update: The state medical examiner’s autopsy has ruled the manner of death to be homicide; the individual had a gunshot wound to the head. The victim was also identified as missing person Priscilla Joann Aldana, age 43 of Salem. Aldana was reported missing on December 23, 2024.

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On January 3, a body was located outside a burned structure on an abandoned lot and later identified as Aldana.

The investigation into Aldana’s disappearance led detectives to Erik Mauricio Meza as a suspect in the case. Meza, age 44 of Salem, and Aldana were in a domestic relationship.

Detectives and a contingent of tactical officers were following Meza and apprehended him without incident in the 500 block of 18 ST NE on Thursday night, January 9.

Meza was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

  • Murder, second degree
  • Abuse of a corpse, second degree
  • Arson, second degree

With Meza in custody, all further media inquiries in the case should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

Memorial Service for Priscilla Aldana will be held at Restlawn Memory Gardens & Funeral Home201 N Oak Grove Rd, Salem, OR 97304On February 8th at 2:00pm


City of Eugene Invites Proposals for New Affordable Housing

artist rendering of a housing development from aerial perspective

The City of Eugene is seeking proposals for the creation of new affordable housing to be funded by $709,879 from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF). The AHTF supports the development of housing affordable to low- and moderate-income residents in Eugene. Applications are open now, with a submission deadline of March 5, 2025.

About the Affordable Housing Trust Fund

The AHTF is funded by a 0.5% construction excise tax on new construction in Eugene and a contribution from the City’s General Fund. Since its inception, the fund has supported affordable housing developments that address local housing needs. In 2024, the City invested $1 million in three developments:

  • Rosa Village: 52 cooperative-ownership homes by SquareOne Villages.
  • The Lucy: 36 rental homes by Cornerstone Community Housing.
  • Williams Place: 10 transitional apartments for veterans, by St. Vincent de Paul.

Available Funding and Priorities

This year, $709,879 is available through the Request for Proposals (RFP). Proposed rental or home-ownership developments should:

  • Be located in Eugene city limits;
  • Include at least 4 dwellings;
  • Meet affordability and other criteria outlined in the application; and
  • Submit a letter of interest by February 5 and a complete application by March 5.

Preference will be given to developments that:

  • provide accessible housing for people with mobility and sensory challenges, 
  • demonstrate innovation through project design, financing, or management structure, 
  • are in areas underserved by Affordable Housing, and
  • serve populations disproportionately impacted by housing cost burden and historically excluded from housing opportunities. 

The full list of award criteria, priorities, and detailed application instructions can be found in the RFP available on the AHTF website.

Proposals will be reviewed, scored, and ranked by community representatives on Affordable Housing Trust Fund Advisory Committee. Recommendations will be presented to the Eugene City Council for final funding decisions.

For more information on the RFP process, visit the AHTF website. (https://eugene-or.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=6886)

ROAD CONSTRUCTION: Marcola Road

Road Name:Marcola Road 
Location:Hayden Bridge, McKenzie River 
Begin Construction:At intersection with Hayden Bridge Road (milepost 1.7) 
End Construction:At intersection with Camp Creek Road/Old Mohawk Road (milepost 1.9) 
Dates and times:Between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. from now through March 31 
Alternate routes: Two lanes of traffic will be maintained during construction. Flagging will be used when necessary. Concrete barriers will be in place to isolate the construction area while work is in progress. 
Reason for closure:  Seismic retrofit of bridge

Lane County Government  · 📢 State of the County Address 📆📍

Can be seen here: https://lanecounty.ompnetwork.org/embed/sessions/306080/state-of-the-county-address-january-6-2025?display_mode=year

🚨 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿𝘀: 𝗟𝗮𝘇𝘆 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻

The Lazy Days Mobile Home and RV Park, rebuilt by Homes for Good after the Holiday Farm Fire, has 20 2-bedroom modular homes that are available to rent for Holiday Farm Fire survivors.

You may be eligible if: ✅You were a renter who lost your primary residence in the Holiday Farm Fire. ✅You lost the home you owned in the Holiday Farm Fire and you either did not own the property it was on or you owned the property but it is now unbuildable.

𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟭 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲, 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗶𝘀. Applicants should be at no more than 80% of the Area Median. For example, 80% AMI means:2 people = $57,050 annual income 4 people = $71,300 annual income Rent is $1000 per month and includes utilities (water, sewer, garbage). Two ADA-accessible units are available.

Funding to provide the modular homes to fire survivors is provided by Oregon Housing & Community Services. Homes for Good is property owner and has led construction on the site. Lane County is assisting with the application process. 🔍Learn more: http://www.homesforgood.org/…/lazy-days-rv-and-mobile…📝Apply starting December 11: www.cognitoforms.com/LaneCounty1/LazyDaysApplication

🌨️ Help Us Keep Lane County Warm! ❄️

We’re launching the Cold Weather Shelter Drive to support our unhoused neighbors this winter. Donate new or gently used tents, blankets, sleeping bags, and tarps to ensure no one faces the cold alone.

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📍 Donation Locations: Visit our website for a full list of drop-off locations. http://www.ccslc.org/cwsd

Or donate directly at our Springfield Service Center:
Catholic Community Services
1025 G Street, Springfield, OR.

Together, we can make a difference! 💙 Call 541-345-3628 ext 1317 for more information

Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.

Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. 👀https://vimeo.com/565852770Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth

“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management

This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do when staying home isn’t an option.

🏠❌Tiffany dives into how to prepare your Go Bag, with everything you need to sustain yourself for 72 hours: water, medications, warm layers, and more. She also breaks down the 𝟲 𝗣𝘀 – the must-haves when you need to evacuate:👨‍👨‍👦🐱People & Pets 💊Prescriptions 📱Personal Computer 📜Papers 🖼️Pictures 💳Plastic (credit cards, important IDs)Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! 🎧 Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube

About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan

White Bird Clinic | Eugene OR

White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.

White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714) — Eugene Coverage: 24/7 (541-682-5111)

Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental

Operation Winter Survival Stockpile

Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the First Christian Church today announced the launch of Operation Winter Survival Stockpile. The operation is an effort to create a stockpile through donations of clothing and other supplies that will help those in our community experiencing homelessness better brave the elements. 

“Every winter those in our community who are without shelter are faced with life-threatening temperatures and weather,” said Maria Cortez, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “These donations will be absolutely crucial to helping these community members stay warm and stay alive.”

After the donation drive, items can continue to be dropped off Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 2 pm. Items can also be purchased on Amazon and sent to 1166 Oak St., Eugene OR 97401. 

The Operation’s Amazon Wish List can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share

Distribution of items will be prioritized to homeless outreach providers such as CAHOOTS that come into direct contact with individuals who are unhoused and unsheltered.

For more information on Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, please contact Maria Cortez at  ia.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov“>Maria.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov

Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene

Salt Creek Falls Trip teens wearing snowshoes

✨ Registration open for our FREE programs.
💡 Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!

For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program

Oregon State of the State Address

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek delivered the State address on Monday. She says the new year carries a clear charge “to embrace opportunities for change together.” You can watch the address here, https://fb.watch/x6NKJnUZH-/ and read the full remarks online at www-auth.oregon.gov/gov/speeches/Pages/default.aspx

The Red Cross Cascades Region Is On The Ground In Los Angeles In The Wake Of Deadly And Destructive Wildfires

One week after wildfires ripped through the Los Angeles region, the Red Cross is still on the ground helping to provide shelter, feeding, reunification, health and mental health support, providing emergency supplies and more. We have over 400 volunteers supporting this relief operation.

The Red Cross Cascades Region (Oregon and SW Washington) has deployed 18 people.

Last night, we staffed 7 shelters with close to 800 people. That doesn’t include the people who are coming in during the day to get help and resources.

Shelters:

  • They serve as a place to come in and get food, get basic health needs met and emotional support too. 
  • They are a place where people can come in and charge cell phones and laptops if their power is cut off. 
  • They are also information hubs. We work with fire departments, emergency managers, forecasters and other partners to help those who’ve been evacuated get the most updated information

The wildfires are still burning, and we know the Santa Ana winds are forecast to flare up in the coming days.

As the wildfires in Southern California continue to burn and impact air quality, the number of Red Cross blood drive cancelations have grown impacting hundreds of lifesaving blood donations.

Where it is safe to do so, we encourage people to schedule a blood donation appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 

The devastation from these wildfires is unbelievably sad. Our hearts go out to everyone who’ve lost their homes and communities.

We will continue to coordinate with local officials and community partners to make sure people have the help they need during this challenging time and we will remain there as long as needed.

People are still counting on us and the best way to support our work right now is by making a financial contribution.  Please go to RedCross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text “CAWILDFIRES” to 90999

If you want to donate items, you are asked to go to 211la.org

The Red Cross has a downloadable emergency app with information on how to prepare, respond to and recover from wildfires. In addition, the American Red Cross has activated the Northwest Response Fund to help impacted residents. 

The Red Cross also provides disaster mental health support to people impacted by the fires. For people struggling with the stress and uncertainty of a crisis situation like this, they can reach out to the free 24/7 multilingual Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 for support. In some cases, there will be mental health workers at shelters as well.

Reunification is another area where the Red Cross works to help people affected by the fires. By calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and providing as much detail as possible about a missing loved one, the Red Cross may be able to assist.

After the immediate disaster has abated, the Red Cross will also aid with recovery. That can include financial support for those who lost their homes and are having trouble finding a place to live, a bus or train ticket to the home of a relative, or assistance with other agencies involved in the recovery process. 

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

In the wake of a disaster like this, the Red Cross said its primary concern is to ensure that people are safe and have shelter, prioritizing getting a roof over everyone’s heads. By Wednesday night, the organization had staffed seven shelters in Southern California and served over 1,000 people for the night.

The Red Cross serves meals to both people who stay at a shelter and those who visit during the day, in some cases just to get information, charge their phones or relax. The organization has served over 10,000 meals since the fires erupted.

Those shelters are available to everyone, including pets — although some pets may need to be found a place at a different location with support from other local partners depending on the situation.

The Red Cross has a downloadable emergency app with information on how to prepare, respond to and recover from wildfires. (SOURCE)

Oregon State Fire Marshal Update on Support To California Fires

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Firefighters and equipment from every corner of Oregon came together to help in California, from Clatsop to Umatilla, Deschutes to Coos, and every county in between. This monumental effort showcases the strength and collaboration of the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System.

Today, most of our strike teams are working 24-hour shifts to secure fire lines, track down and extinguish hotspots, and respond to any new fires. A few teams are resting after completing their own 24-hour shifts yesterday. Despite the demanding work, morale remains high, and the teams deeply appreciate your support. We’ll continue to share updates as they continue their good work!

For information about the wildfires, visit CAL Fire’s Current Emergency Incidents webpage.  

The Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System is made up of the 300+ local structural fire agencies across Oregon. During emergencies, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilizes this force to protect people, property and critical infrastructure.  

This request came the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. The compact provides help during governor-declared emergencies or disasters by allowing states to send personnel, equipment, and supplies to support response and recovery efforts in other states. The strike teams will be reimbursed directly by California.

More than 24 hours into negotiations and Providence has yet to send any proposals to ONA

 When Providence finally agreed to return to negotiations with nearly 5,000 striking frontline caregivers, the bargaining teams from the Oregon Nurses Association moved quickly and sent proposals to Providence from all 11 bargaining units. More than 24 hours later, and Providence has not responded. 

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Providence claims to be ready to resume negotiations but their lack of response and urgency demonstrates they may not be as serious about negotiations as they previously claimed.  

Instead of responding to ONA’s proposals, Providence spent the day trying to divide frontline caregivers with coercive messages about crossing the strike line. The Oregon Nurses Association is calling on Providence to take negotiations seriously so we can reach a fair contract and end this strike. 

The strike lines are strong and getting stronger as frontline caregivers are resolved to reach fair contracts that address the systemic issues facing Providence like chronic understaffing, high turnover rates, and lower standards in patient care. 

ONA’s proposals include language on the following: 

Safe Staffing – ONA proposes that each hospital incorporate patient acuity into all units and hospital staffing plans to determine the appropriate number of patients a nurse can be assigned. Nurses caring for patients with higher acuity, who require more attention, should be assigned fewer patients to ensure they can spend more time with those with the greatest need. 

Providence, however, has rejected proposals to have acuity factored into staffing plan ratios. This will ultimately limit the amount of time nurses can spend with patients who require the most care and could negatively impact patient outcomes. 

Market Competitive Wages – Frontline caregivers are not asking for exorbitant wages; we are asking for market-competitive compensation that recognizes our experience, hard work, and value to the communities we serve. It is crucial to remember that wages are also key to recruitment and retention of staff which, in turn, impacts chronic unsafe staffing conditions that put both patients and healthcare workers at risk. ONA is asking for wage increases that will bring Providence more in line with market leaders.  

It is important to note that these wage offers from Providence, if agreed to, would still mean their frontline caregivers would be far behind the market on wages. Specifically, by 2026, Providence nurses with 15 years of experience would earn approximately $8,000 less annually than their counterparts at OHSU, based on Providence’s current wage offers.    

Employee Health Insurance – Providence employees can pay upwards of $6,300 dollars in out-of-pocket expenses for deductibles while employees at Kaiser, the market leader in employee healthcare, pay only $10 out of pocket for procedures and doctors’ visits.  

ONA has proposed lowering health care premiums and copays for employees or an Aetna Impact Fund to make up for the cost increases because of Providences transition to Aetna to manage their employee health insurance. ONA has also proposed a Letter of Agreement to convene a regional task force to explore new ways to provide health insurance to ONA members, including exploring a healthcare trust.  Providence has rejected any changes to health insurance benefits.  (SOURCE)

Physicians Striking Alongside the Nurses as Providence Strike

Dr. Shirley Fox, an obstetric hospitalist with nearly 30 years at Oregon’s largest Providence hospital, never imagined herself on a picket line. After all, vanishingly few physicians have historically joined unions, much less strike.

Yet last week, Fox was marching outside Providence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland. She and 70 other doctors unionized in 2023 and, after a year of negotiations over their first labor contract, joined nearly 5,000 nurses in the largest health worker strike in Oregon history. The strike is also the state’s first involving a doctors union.

Fox said her once-fulfilling job, defined by patient care and autonomy, shifted into a struggle against exhausting schedules and chronic understaffing.

“It’s crazy. There are days when we can’t eat, can’t sit and can’t even pee because we’re so busy,” Fox said. “We’ve been asking for just another body to help us in these critical times, but we can’t seem to get a hospital to do it.”

Doctors unions are growing more common across the country. While physicians historically sat atop the health care hierarchy, an increasingly consolidated health care sector has left them finding more affinity with nurses and other more commonly unionized colleagues.

“What’s notable about this strike is that the physicians are fighting alongside the nurses, which points to potentially evolving alliances in the health care sector,” said Hayden Rooke-Ley, a health law and policy fellow at Brown University who recently led a study on physician unionization. “There seems to be a growing recognition among physicians that their grievances with corporate medicine are similar to those faced by other caregivers, and even non-clinical health care workers.”

Rooke-Ley’s study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that the number of physicians unions formed between January 2023 and May 2024 nearly matched those over more than two decades prior, between 2000 to 2022.

Oregon’s wave of labor activity across the health care sector picked up in 2023 and included the hospitalists at St. Vincent and the physicians and providers at Providence’s women’s clinics. Legacy Health also saw more than 150 doctors across its six hospitals unionize.

Other health systems in the country, including Alina Health in Minnesota and Ascension St. John in Detroit, Michigan, also saw hundreds of doctors join a union.

Rooke-Ley said physicians are now grappling with the same issues — centralized decision-making, professional demoralization, and cost-cutting — that have long driven other workers to unionize. The pandemic and its aftermath amplified these dynamics, he said, heightening issues of understaffing, burnout, and threats to patient care.

“The pandemic turned many hospitals upside down financially,” Rooke-Ley said. “In response, one of the strategies has been to tighten labor costs while squeezing more patients in. … Hospitals are trying to generate more revenue or become profitable again, and that often comes at the expense of labor.”

Even with nearly 5,000 nurses on strike, Providence said the striking hospitalists and women’s clinic physicians and providers have created an unusual challenge.

While there’s a ready and willing workforce of traveling nurses willing to step in during a strike — usually at great cost — there’s no such backup for striking physicians.

In the lead-up to the strike, Providence broke from its usual stance of refusing last-minute talks, asking the doctors to try to negotiate an eleventh-hour deal. The doctors declined to return to mediation unless Providence agreed to bargain with nurses and other workers set to strike.

Providence filed an unfair labor practice complaint against the physicians for failing return to the table. (The Oregon Nurses Association, the labor union that represents the striking nurses and staffs the bargaining team for the striking doctors, says it’s Providence that has delayed negotiations.)

Providence, a nonprofit founded by an order of Catholic nuns, hasn’t been immune to the pressures that have affected the broader health care sector. Though it manages a multibillion-dollar investment portfolio, its medical operations have lost money over the last two years.

Jennifer Burrows, chief executive of Providence Oregon, said last week that Providence’s costs to provide care exceeds insurance reimbursements. She said Providence has been trying to buoy its finances by selling off parts of Providence’s operations.

Providence sold lab operations in 2023 and signed on with Aetna to administer its self-funded health plans for employees. More recently, Providence has pursued a joint venture with a private equity-backed firm to run its home health and hospice operations.

The striking doctors say cost-cutting has also affected their ability to care for patients.

Dr. Lesley Liu, an internal medicine and pediatric hospitalist at St. Vincent, said her team has been stretched thin for years but the pandemic only magnified the issue.

Like many physicians on the picket line, Liu said she was reluctant to rock the boat in the past. Her breaking point came after the peak of the pandemic, when conditions failed to improve as promised, she said.

“For us to be out here is a pretty big deal. It’s a moral and ethical dilemma, and I’m scared for patients,” Liu said. “Not being in the hospital taking care of people is very distressing, and I think the administration is trying to take advantage of that. But we’ve been suffering in silence for so many years that it’s to a point we can’t take this anymore.”

The Providence strike and its outcome could set a precedent for similar disputes nationwide, Rooke-Ley said. If nurses and doctors succeed in securing significant concessions through their alliance, it could inspire others across the country to do the same.

5,000 frontline caregivers from eight hospitals and six clinics across Oregon went on strike for reasons beyond fair compensation, but a systemic crisis affecting patient care, staffing safety, health insurance benefits, and healthcare delivery. At the core of negotiation will be key issues that include: 

  • Resolution of systemic unsafe staffing issues documented across facilities 
  • Addressing health insurance and benefits disparities 
  • Implementation of necessary patient safety measures 
  • Market-competitive wages that will attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals. 

A reminder to patients from doctors, nurses and caregivers: If you are sick, please do not delay getting medical care. Patients who need hospital or clinical care immediately should go to receive care. We would prefer to provide your care ourselves, but Providence executives’ refusal to continue meeting with caregivers has forced us onto the picket line to advocate for you, our communities, and our colleagues. Going into a hospital or clinic to get the care you need is NOT crossing our strike line. We invite you to come join us on the strike line after you’ve received the care you need. Community members can visit www.OregonRN.org/PatientsBeforeProfits to sign a petition to support frontline healthcare workers, get updates and find out how else they can help.   

Gaming Already Underway at Coquille Tribe’s Just-Approved Medford Casino Amid Lawsuit by Competing Tribes

The Coquille Indian Tribe didn’t waste any time offering video game gambling in Medford starting Sunday in the wake of a U.S. Department of Interior decision last week paving the way for a Class II-type casino.

“It’s been 12 years, and we’re not waiting any longer,” said Ray Doering, director of public affairs and compliance with Tribal One, part of the Coquille Tribe. “We wanted to establish that this is what we’re doing.”

The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, owners of Seven Feathers Casino and Resort in Canyonville, on Tuesday referred to the Coquille move as an operation that started “illegally in the dark of night.” (SOURCE)

FBI & Partners Ask Public To Report Information On Ballot Box Fires: Law Enforcement Agencies Concerned The Suspect May Harm Self Or Others

The FBI is asking the public to report any information related to the series of dangerous attacks in October at ballot box locations in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon.

As law enforcement continues to investigate, we ask you to report unusual behaviors or the presence of materials and tools that could help law enforcement identify the person responsible before they act out again. Specifically, law enforcement is looking for someone who is unusually knowledgeable about explosives or incendiary devices, particularly thermite, and/or has an interest in grinding or welding metal.

We need your help to identify the person responsible for placing these devices to ensure that they will not harm themself or others. The thermite devices they have created can cause severe injuries and damage to structures.

To date, no one has been injured by these devices, but they are extremely dangerous and could cause serious injury.

Observations to consider between October 8, 2024, and now:

  • Did someone brag or show approval or admiration for the person who placed the devices on the ballot boxes?
  • Did someone follow the story of these ballot box fires very closely or exhibit an unusual response to the reporting of this story?
  • Did someone show increased anxiety about the topic or express fears about being identified as a suspect? 
  • Did you notice unusual packages or storing of metal shavings or unexplained fire damage to a home or other structure, a field, or a wilderness area?
  • Did you notice unusual behaviors such as someone researching thermite, grinding metals, and obtaining small scraps of metal (including pipe endcaps, nuts, and bolts) or welding small projects?Did someone you know recently dispose of or stop using a Volvo S-60 sedan?

Reward — The FBI is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person responsible for these crimes. Anyone can view or download the FBI’s Seeking Information Poster and the surveillance video from the Portland incident.

CrimeStoppers of Oregon is offering a separate reward on behalf of Portland Police Bureau of up to $2,500. (CrimeStoppers of Oregon and Portland Police Bureau will be responsible for determining any payment for this separate reward.)

Background Information — The FBI has been working with our partners at the Portland Police Bureau and Vancouver Police Department to positively identify the person responsible for placing homemade thermite devices on ballot boxes. 

Incidents:

1.     October 8, 2024 – Ballot box located at the intersection of W 14th Street and Esther Street in Vancouver at approximately 3:45 am.

2.     October 28, 2024 – Ballot box located on the north side of the Fisher’s Landing Transit Center in Vancouver near the SE 164th Avenue entrance at approximately 2:35 am.

3.     October 28, 2024 – Ballot box located at the intersection of SE Belmont Street and SE 11th Avenue in Portland at approximately 3:08 am.

Vehicle: The suspect was driving a black or dark grey 2004 Volvo S-60 sedan with a light-colored interior. The car has a sunroof and dark after-market wheel rims, and, at the time of the crime, is missing the Volvo logo normally affixed to the front grill.

Devices: The suspect welded the three devices using metal for the exterior and inserted thermite into the devices. Thermite looks like metal shavings and/or a metal-based powder. The amount of shavings/powder can be small.

TipsIf you have any information on this suspect or these crimes, please call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit your information online at tips.fbi.gov. Tips can remain anonymous.

CDC: Oregon Has One of Highest Level Of Flu Cases

— Oregon is among four states with the highest levels of influenza in the U.S. According to a report by the CDC, most of the country is experiencing elevated levels of respiratory illness, but Oregon is at the top. It, along with Tennessee, New Mexico and Louisiana, have “very high” activity levels. The CDC attributes part of the rise to a lack of updated vaccinations.

Teen Arrested After Allegedly Carrying Gun On Campus

— An Oregon City teenager is facing possible charges after allegedly carrying a gun on a high school campus. Police arrested 18-year-old Armando Bagos yesterday for the incident at Oregon City High School. Police say officers responded to the school after receiving a report that a person who was not a student was carrying a gun on campus. The school was briefly placed on hold while officers arrested the man. An investigation is ongoing.

Tribes, 34 organizations, receive $23 million to support home repairs

OHA’s Healthy Homes Grant Program seeks improved housing conditions, health outcomes for low-income residents to prevent displacement

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has awarded $23 million to repair and rehabilitate homes of low-income residents to eliminate risks to residents’ health to the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon and 34 local organizations. The funds are from the Healthy Homes Grant Program (HHGP), established to improve health by rehabilitating living environments in Oregon.

“Research has shown there is an inextricable link between a person’s health and housing status, and that quality of housing is a social determinant of health,” said Oregon Public Health Division Director Naomi Adeline-Biggs, MBBS, MPH. “With the Healthy Homes grants, Oregon is helping to prevent and reduce short- and long-term negative health outcomes by addressing the quality of housing as a public health issue.”

People living in poverty are more likely to live in substandard housing that is not healthy or safe and are at higher risk of losing homes that are not well-maintained or repaired. Older and substandard housing is more likely to contain hazards such as peeling or deteriorated lead-based paint. Delaying maintenance can lead to leaking roofs or pipes, which can cause mold. Uninsulated homes can be drafty and uncomfortable for residents and result in higher energy bills.

Homes that are not well-maintained or repaired can also lead to lead poisoning, asthma and other respiratory diseases, cancer, unintended injures, increased stress, poor school attendance for children and missed workdays for parents. Improved housing conditions for low-income families can prevent illness and reduce their health care costs, improve safety, conserve natural resources and reduce energy costs for occupants.

The organizations—nonprofits, local housing authorities, community action agencies and local governments serving communities in all areas of the state—are each receiving between $199,980 to $750,000 to use over a three-year period. The grants are intended to help homeowners and landlords repair and rehabilitate homes inhabited by low-income residents, including renters, to improve their environmental health and safety.

The Oregon Legislature established the HHGP in 2021. It directs OHA to provide grants to local organizations serving low-income residents to repair and rehabilitate homes, including rental properties, throughout the state.

Funding recipients — OHA is awarding nearly $20.4 million in HHGP funds to 34 organizations through a competitive grant process and were selected from a pool of 75 applicants. The grantees with the strongest proposals for meeting the priorities set in state law include organizations experienced in improving the health or safety of occupants of residences, maximizing energy efficiency or extending the usable life of homes which serves eligible households in Oregon; and organizations serving historically unrepresented and underserved communities, including people of color, those who are low income, and American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

In addition, OHA has set aside $3 million in HHGP funds for the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon, honoring government-to-government relationships. OHA is working with each Tribe to award this funding.

For a video highlighting this work and to hear from recipients themselves, visit this link.

A full list of competitive grant recipients are available on the HHGP website, www.oregon.gov/healthyhomes.

Project examples — Examples of funded projects include home assessments to identify priority structural, health and safety repair needs; energy efficiency updates to protect against extreme temperatures; roof replacements; making homes less susceptible to wildfire damage; and abatement of radon, mold, mildew, and lead-based paint.

The projects will use HHGP funds to fill gaps and leverage other state and federal funding, such as Community Development Block Grants, Weatherization Assistance Program funding and the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund.

Grant funding schedule — OHA sent letters of intent to successful grant applicants in August and has been working with individual organizations to finalize grant agreements. The agency hopes to finish executing the grant agreements by the end of January. Grant recipients will have up to three years to complete their projects.

Banks High School Teacher Arrested For Sexually Abusing Student

On the morning of January 8, 2025, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to the city of Banks were notified by staff at Banks High School about concerns that a math teacher had sexual contact with a student. Deputies learned the school district was made aware of the allegations on January 7 and immediately placed the teacher, 66-year-old Wymon Smith, on leave.

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Officials at the high school notified the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline on January 7th, as required by law. The case was assigned to detectives in the Violent Crimes Unit, which also handles child abuse investigations. Detectives learned Smith had sexually inappropriate conversations with multiple students and had sexual contact with at least one student on school property.

On the afternoon of January 14, 2025, detectives arrested Smith. Smith was lodged in jail on charges of sexual abuse in the second degree and luring a minor. Oregon law specifies that any sexual contact perpetrated by a teacher or a coach to a student is a felony.

Detectives are concerned there are additional victims and want to speak with anyone who has information about Smith’s concerning behaviors. Additional charges are possible as the investigation continues. The Banks School District continues to cooperate with the law enforcement investigation.

The release of Smith’s booking photo is for law enforcement purposes and is in accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273 for the identification of additional criminal activity.

State agencies begin implementation of Oregon Housing Needs Analysis to promote creation of housing

SALEM, Ore. —  The Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) is a new component to Oregon’s statewide land use planning system intended to facilitate housing production, affordability and choice to meet housing needs for Oregonians statewide. Three state agencies have vital roles in implementing the Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA). Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), Department of Administrative Services (DAS) and Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) are undertaking various tasks outlined by House Bill 2001 (2023).

The Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) unanimously adopted the first set of rules DLCD will use to implement comprehensive, system-wide housing planning reforms to make meaningful progress in addressing Oregon’s housing crisis in December 2024. DLCD aims to reform the implementation of housing planning from a narrow focus on zoning and land capacity towards a more comprehensive framework that considers the state’s specific housing needs. The new approach emphasizes the role state and local governments play in taking action to promote housing production, affordability, and choice within communities across Oregon. LCDC will adopt additional rules associated with the legislation by January 2026. Information about this rulemaking effort is available on the DLCD website.

“Our department looks forward to rolling up our sleeves and working closely with local governments and our partner agencies to implement this critical reform to our state’s land use planning program,” said DLCD Director Brenda Bateman. “The factors that have contributed to our state’s current housing shortage are complex, I am proud of the role that DLCD and our commission is playing to get closer to a future where all Oregonians have access to housing that meets their unique needs.”

DAS developed a methodology to estimate the state’s total number of housing units needed over a 20-year time period and set housing production benchmarks for cities with 10,000 or more people.  DAS published the methodology and production targets at the beginning of the month and will do so annually.

“OHNA represents a deeply analytical approach toward statewide land use planning for both housing and urbanization,” said Carl Riccadonna, state chief economist. Carl leads the Office of Economic Analysis at the Department of Administrative Services. “This is the first time that a statewide methodology has been implemented and considers more components than prior methodologies enacted at the local level. In balancing priorities of responsible land stewardship and equitable economic development, Oregon state government takes an important step toward alleviating a nation-wide housing affordability crisis and securing the economic future of all Oregonians.”

OHCS developed a housing production dashboard to monitor local governments’ progress towards its housing production targets. Additionally, OHCS established indicators for monitoring equitable housing outcomes by local governments. OHCS will publish the production dashboard and the housing equity indicators annually, starting with the first release on Jan. 1.

“We are incredibly proud of the collaboration with other state agencies, local partners, and nonprofit organizations that helped us create these tools to measure housing progress in Oregon,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “Creating affordable housing is not just about building structures, it’s about communities coming together with the collective goal to help one another.”

About the Department of Land Conservation and Development

Oregon’s statewide land use planning program, established in 1973 under Senate Bill 100, aims to protect farm and forest lands, conserve natural resources, and support livable communities. The program helps guide the development of land for housing, industry, commercial use, transportation, and agriculture, ensuring that growth is sustainable and well-coordinated. Administered by the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), the program is overseen by the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC), a seven-member volunteer board. Cities and counties in Oregon are required to adopt comprehensive plans that meet state standards, which are outlined in 19 Statewide Planning Goals that address land use, development, housing, transportation, and natural resource conservation.

About the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) and Office of Economic Analysis (OEA)

The Department of Administrative Services is the central administrative department of Oregon state government. The DAS mission is to lead state agencies through collaboration in service of Oregonians. The Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) within DAS provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, population, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used by the Governor, the Legislature, state agencies and the public to achieve their goals.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 

OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

State program urges testing during National Radon Action Month in January

Colorless, odorless gas is second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is urging home radon testing during January, when winter heating season is at its peak and tightly closed windows and doors increase people’s exposure to the odorless, tasteless, invisible gas.

January is National Radon Action Month. Each year, OHA promotes the annual observance by encouraging people in Oregon to take steps to reduce their exposure to radon by testing their homes for the gas and, if necessary, hiring a professional to reduce radon to a safe level.

Many parts of Oregon remain at risk of high radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes up from the ground and is drawn into buildings, where it can build up to dangerous levels.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates radon is responsible for around 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer behind smoking, and it’s the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

“During the heating season or colder months, when windows and doors are closed for long periods of time, people have more exposure to potentially high radon levels because they are spending more time indoors,” said Brett Sherry, program manager for OHA’s Healthy Homes & Schools Unit, which oversees the Oregon Radon Awareness Program.

“That exposure could significantly increase with so many people working from home,” he said.

National Radon Awareness Month is a great time to remind folks that the only way for them to know if they have high radon levels in their homes is to test.

The Radon Awareness Program monitors which areas of the state have the potential for high radon levels and identifies regions where educational outreach efforts need to be focused. The program is offering a free radon test kit to residents whose homes are in ZIP codes with fewer than 20 radon test results. Residents can learn more about the free radon test kit program and how to apply at www.healthoregon.org/radon. Free test kits are available while supplies last.

Home testing kits can be purchased at hardware or home improvement stores, with prices ranging from $20 to $30. You can also order a radon test kit online from the American Lung Association. If you would prefer to have a professional test your home, contact a certified radon measurement company.

For more information on radon, including which areas of the state are at moderate to high risk of elevated radon levels, radon testing and mitigation options, or to order a test kit online, contact OHA’s Radon Awareness Program at adon.program@oha.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>radon.program@oha.oregon.gov or visit www.healthoregon.org/radon.

Oregon Joins $80 Million Enforcement Action Against Block Inc., CashApp For Bank Secrecy Act Violations

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The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) and 47 state financial regulatory agencies have taken coordinated action against Block Inc., for violations of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and anti-money laundering (AML) laws that safeguard the financial system from illicit use. 

More than 50 million consumers in the U.S. use CashApp, Block’s mobile payment service, to spend, send, store, and invest money.

In the multistate settlement signed this week, Block agreed to pay an $80 million penalty to the state agencies, hire an independent consultant to review the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of its BSA/AML program, and submit a report to the states within nine months. Block then will have 12 months to correct any deficiencies found in the review after the report is filed.

“Oregon continues to work alongside other states to protect consumers and hold companies accountable,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “This settlement reinforces our commitment to safeguarding the financial system and ensuring compliance with laws designed to prevent illicit activity.”

The settlement was the result of a multistate examination to determine Block’s compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. Block worked cooperatively with the state regulators throughout the examination.

Under BSA/AML rules, financial services firms are required to perform due diligence on customers, including verifying customer identities, reporting suspicious activity, and applying appropriate controls for high-risk accounts. State regulators found Block was not in compliance with certain requirements, creating the potential that its services could be used to support money laundering, terrorism financing, or other illegal activities.

Through a strong, nationwide regulatory framework, state financial regulators license and serve as the primary supervisor of money transmitters. States license more than 700 money transmitters. To protect consumers and enforce safety and soundness requirements, state regulators regularly coordinate supervision of multistate firms and, when necessary, initiate enforcement actions. This coordination – networked supervision – supports consistency and collaboration, while preserving the authority of individual states to take direct action. Additional information on the state regulatory framework for money transmission can be found here.

State financial regulators license and supervise more than 34,000 nonbank financial services companies through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System, including mortgage companies, money services businesses, consumer finance providers, and debt collectors. Oregon residents who have questions about the enforcement action should contact DFR’s consumer advocates at 888-877-4894 or email .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. Residents can also visit NMLS Consumer Access to verify that a company is licensed to do business in Oregon.

### About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Registration Is Now Open For The Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K Run for the Trees


Oregon Parks Forever 

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  Registration is now open for the 2025 Run for the Trees at www.orparksforever.org.

Participants can run, walk, hike, skate, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 19 and 27 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.

Gather your friends, family and/or colleagues and create your own walk or run. Make it fun!

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its fifth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include ten other states. Together, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Maryland and Virginia will “lock arms” as they help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to partner with Bob Ross, Inc. and these other ten states on the Happy Little 5K concept as a way to honor the late Bob Ross and create a legacy event to plant trees,” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.”

Oregon Parks Forever joined this event as an expansion of our efforts to fund the replanting of trees killed by wildfires, heat domes and invasive insects.  Over the past three years, Oregon Parks Forever has been able to fund the replanting of more than 800,000 trees across Oregon.

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Learn more about the program at  www.orparksforever.org.

IRS Direct File, Direct File Oregon Will Be Available When Income Tax Return Processing Begins January 27

Salem, OR— Free electronic filing through the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon will open January 27 when both the IRS and the Oregon Department of Revenue begin processing e-filed 2024 federal and state income tax returns. Paper-filed return processing will begin in mid-February.

The IRS estimates that 640,000 Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own tax returns in 2025 will have the option to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns for free by filing directly with the IRS and the state.

Taxpayers are encouraged to use the IRS Eligibility Checker to see if they qualify to file directly with the IRS and the state.

E-filed returns will be processed in the order they are received. However, as in years past, the department won’t be issuing personal income tax refunds until after February 15. A refund hold is part of the department’s tax fraud prevention efforts and allows for confirmation that the amounts claimed on tax returns match what employers and payers report on Forms W-2 and 1099.

E-filing is the fastest way for a taxpayer to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.

The department reminds taxpayers that taking a few easy steps in the next few weeks can make preparing their 2024 tax return easier in 2025.

Free filing options open January 27 — In addition to IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon, other free filing options will also open January 27. Free guided tax preparation is available from several companies for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Free fillable forms are available for all income levels. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.

Free and low-cost tax help — Free tax preparation services are available for low- to moderate-income taxpayers through AARP and CASH Oregon. United Way also offers free tax help through their MyFreeTaxes program. Visit the Department of Revenue website to take advantage of the software and free offers and get more information about free tax preparation services.

Voluntary self-identification of race and ethnicity information — New for 2025, Oregon taxpayers and Oregonians can voluntarily provide information about their race and ethnicity on Form OR-VSI when they file their 2024 taxes. Providing this information may be done separately from a tax return through Revenue Online. The information will be confidential. It can only be used for research purposes to analyze potential inequities in tax policy. The new option is a result of Senate Bill 1 in 2023.

Use Revenue Online to verify payments — Taxpayers can verify their estimated payments through their Revenue Online account.

Through Revenue Online, individuals can also view letters sent to them by the department, initiate appeals, make payments, and submit questions. Visit Revenue Online on the Revenue website to learn more.

Those who don’t have a Revenue Online account can sign up on the agency’s website.

To check the status of their refund after February 15, or make payments, taxpayers can visit Revenue’s website. You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls.

Department Of Revenue Volunteers Will Help Taxpayers Use Direct File Oregon To E-file Their Taxes For Free At Libraries Across The State

Salem, OR—Oregonians looking for assistance in electronically filing their taxes for free, could find help as close as their local library this tax season.

Volunteers from the Oregon Department of Revenue will be traveling to libraries in 17 different communities across the state in February, March, and April to assist taxpayers in using the free combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to complete their returns.

The one-day tax help clinics are planned at libraries in:

BandonNorth Bend
BurnsPrineville
CoquillePendleton
CorneliusRoseburg
The DallesSalem
Klamath FallsSeaside
LebanonSweet Home
McMinnvilleToledo
 Tualatin

Dates, times, and addresses for each clinic can be found on the Free Direct File assistance at local libraries webpage.

Last year, more than 140,000 taxpayers in 12 other states filed their federal tax returns using a limited IRS Direct File pilot program while nearly 7,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns using the free, state-only Direct File Oregon option.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in May that it would make IRS Direct File a permanent option for taxpayers and invited all 50 states to participate. Oregon was the first of 13 new states to accept the invitation from the IRS in June creating a seamless free e-filing system for both federal and state taxes.

With the two direct file systems connected, the IRS estimates that 640,000 Oregon taxpayers will be able to e-file both their federal and state returns for free in 2025.

The department believes that offering free assistance will help maximize the number of Oregonians who choose to use the new free option and make it possible for many who don’t have a filing requirement to file and claim significant federal and state tax credits for low-income families.

For example, the IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.

Taxpayers should use the IRS eligibility checker to see if they’ll be able to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon. Eligible taxpayers should set up an IRS online account and an account with Oregon’s Revenue Online before they come to an event. Taxpayers attending an event should bring the following information with them.

Identification documents

  • Social security card or ITIN for everyone on your tax return
  • Government picture ID for taxpayer and spouse if filing jointly (such as driver’s license or passport)

Common income and tax documents

  • Forms W2 (wages from a job)
  • Forms 1099 (other kinds of income)
  • Form SSA-1099 (Social Security Benefits)

Optional documents to download

  • Canceled check or bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
  • Last year’s tax return

Taxpayers can signup for the new “Oregon Tax Tips” direct email newsletter to keep up with information about tax return filing and how to claim helpful tax credits. 

You’ll need a Real ID to fly domestically, starting in May of 2025, that’s unless you have a passport or enhanced driver’s license issued by several states.

The deadline is May 7, 2025, but you probably don’t want to wait until the last minute to get your Real ID. You can apply for your Real ID driver’s license or ID card through your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Real IDs are marked with a star on the top of the card. Real IDs will also be needed to access certain federal facilities. Congress mandated the real IDs in 2005 on the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

Media contest invites Oregon high school students to promote young worker safety; entries due Feb. 21, 2025

Salem – High school students across Oregon are encouraged to put their video or graphic design skills on display by competing for cash prizes as part of a larger cause: increasing awareness about workplace safety and health for young workers.

The 2025 media contest, organized by the Oregon Young Employee Safety (O[yes]) Coalition, calls on participants to create an ad – through a compelling graphic design or video – that grabs their peers’ attention and convinces them to take the Young Employee Safety Awareness online training.

Participants get to choose the key message, theme, or tagline they believe will go furthest in capturing their audience and moving it to act. The target audience? Teen workers or teens who are preparing to work for the first time. The contest is now open for submissions. To compete, participants may submit either a graphic design or a video that is no more than 90 seconds in length.

Participants are expected to choose their key message, theme, or tagline in a wise and positive manner, including constructive and effective messages and language.

The top three entries in each of the two media categories will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500. In each category, the first-place winner’s school, club, or organization will receive a matching award. Moreover, O[yes] will use the best of the submissions as ads in its ongoing efforts to improve on-the-job safety and health protections for teens.

While they carry out their projects, participants must ensure the health and safety of their team. No one should be endangered while creating their video or graphic design project.

The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. 

Participants are encouraged to submit entries online. Submissions may also be mailed on a USB thumb drive or delivered in person. 

For more information about the entry form and rulescontest expectations, and resources – including previous contest winners  – visit the O[yes] online contest page.

The contest sponsors are local Oregon chapters of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Construction Safety Summit, Central Oregon Safety & Health Association, Hoffman Construction Company, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon OSHA, SafeBuild Alliance, SAIF Corporation, and the Oregon Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Alliance.

### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

About the Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]): (O[yes]) is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing young worker injuries and fatalities. O[yes] members include safety and health professionals, educators, employers, labor and trade associations, and regulators. Visit youngemployeesafety.org.

https://www.oregon.gov/osp/missing/pages/missingpersons.aspx

Oregon’s Missing Persons

Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.

In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.

Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced

SafeOregon Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.

It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com

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