Portland clarified its phased ban on gas-powered leaf blowers: limited use in 2026–27 and a full, year-round ban beginning January 1, 2028. Owners must ensure electric blowers are used.

Portland Public Schools released a new AI guidebook that frames AI as "human-centered," but parents and teachers say it raises privacy, accuracy and learning concerns. The district plans trainings and listening sessions as the debate unfolds.

The Oregon PUC approved a new data‑center customer class and a surcharge to make server farms cover long-term grid costs instead of households.

A settlement will make Oregon share county‑level voter‑maintenance data and prompt a cleanup of long‑inactive registrations.

Multnomah County says ballots should have arrived by May 7. Here’s how to get a replacement, track it, and return it before the May 19 deadline.

A remote Oregon town that calls itself the "Tallest Town" says it can't pay routine bills after years of failed bets. Residents and officials now scramble for stopgaps.

A Portland advocacy group says Oregon State Police allowed federal immigration agencies to query driver‑license, registration and other private records about 1.4 million times; the suit seeks an injunction.

DOE has reportedly narrowed the BPA administrator search to two finalists — a decision that could shift transmission planning, rates and the agency’s market strategy.

Bob Cozzie will leave Portland’s public‑safety post on May 18, 2026 — less than a year after his permanent appointment. His exit comes as the city grapples with deep budget cuts that could reshape police, fire and 911 services.

State ethics commissioners will meet May 8 to decide whether six Portland councilors violated public‑meetings law at a private August retreat. Investigators recommended dismissal but the panel could still act.

Latricia Tillman will lead Portland’s new Office of Equity and Human Rights, bringing public‑health and equity experience and starting May 11. City officials say she was chosen after a national search.

Washington County mailed ballots April 29 for the May 19 primary. Most voters should receive them by May 5 and can track delivery with BallotTrax.

A fact‑check found several key claims from the second Oregon GOP debate were misleading or unsupported, from literacy and incarceration links to payroll and downtown vacancy numbers.