The Oregon Department of Revenue has started issuing tax refunds for the 2024 tax year, with over 400,000 returns processed. They recommend e-filing and direct deposit for quicker refunds.

Oregon invests over $141 million to create and preserve over 500 affordable homes in Marion and Multnomah counties, leveraging state, federal, and tax credit resources.

Oak Street Village is a new shelter set to open in Portland's Montavilla neighborhood, offering 29 pods for up to 40 homeless individuals, with a celebratory event on Feb. 19.

Senator Ron Wyden introduces a bill to raise the minimum age for purchasing assault weapons from 18 to 21, aiming to reduce gun violence and align with handgun purchase age requirements.

Two backcountry skiers died in an avalanche near Broken Top, west of Bend, Oregon. Their bodies were recovered by search and rescue, with warnings about the area's avalanche risks.

Portland announced land use decision LU 24-106186 MLDS, recommitting to accessibility in city services following Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II.

Portland's Juniper House, a significant site for healthcare and LGBTQ+ advocacy as Oregon's first HIV/AIDS care home, has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Oregon Department of Revenue began issuing tax refunds for 2024, with most expected within two weeks of filing if returns are simple and error-free. Longer waits may apply for complex returns.

An article highlights the work of Portland snowplow driver Eligeah Hodges, crucial in keeping the city's roads safe during winter.

Portland's Housing and Homelessness Committee member Angelita Morillo plans to address AI's impact on rental prices by proposing a ban on AI rental price fixing.

Portland's Water Bureau and BES directors are retiring, with Quisha Light and Ting Lu as acting directors. The city is promoting the One Water initiative and will unify bureau leadership roles.

Governor Tina Kotek pauses referrals of Oregon wildfire map appeals to allow the legislative session to address concerns and possibly avoid legal costs for Oregonians. Appeals can still be made to the Department of Forestry until March 10.

A body was found on Sauvie Island, prompting a suspicious death investigation by the East County Major Crimes Team; no threat to public safety perceived.