Your trusted source for local Portland, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The City of Portland published its Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, available in three PDF volumes and accompanied by an interactive dashboard. This release enhances transparency regarding city revenues, expenses, and strategic priorities. Printed copies are accessible at the Portland Building for public viewing.
Portland Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry reports increased permit requests due to lifted application fees, alongside community concerns about the emerald ash borer beetle. Staffing reductions have led to longer response times for tree permits and inquiries.
City officials announced updated turnaround times for tree permitting services, effective September 30, 2025. Increased workloads and staff reductions are causing delays, with non-development tree permit decisions taking up to four weeks. The public can report tree emergencies by calling 503-823-TREE for immediate assistance.
The Affordable Housing Opportunities Project in Portland accepts public testimony on zoning changes aimed at increasing affordable housing before a Planning Commission hearing on August 26. The Code Alignment Project, focused on streamlining the permitting process, will also be discussed at a City Council hearing on September 3. Both initiatives reflect the city's commitment to enhancing housing accessibility and improving urban planning.
The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability issued a notice regarding the land use decision LU 25-049932 AD. The decision, effective August 12, 2025, outlines modifications to land use regulations impacting various sectors, including business and finance.
Portland provides essential accessibility services in compliance with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws. Services include translation, interpretation, and other accommodations to ensure all residents can access city programs and services. To request assistance, residents can call 503-823-4000.
A three-alarm brush fire destroyed a barn in Beavercreek, Oregon, on Monday evening. Firefighters contained the blaze and prevented it from spreading to surrounding vegetation, with no injuries reported. Investigators are working to determine the cause of the fire.
Homicide detectives investigate a gunshot death at a North Portland motel, where a man was found dead on Monday evening. Police report that the suspect or suspects fled the scene before officers arrived. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact detectives.
Two hikers in the Badlands Wilderness Area near Bend, Oregon, called for help after running out of food and water. Deschutes County Sheriff's Office deputies and Search & Rescue volunteers assisted the hikers back to safety without needing further medical treatment. Officials remind outdoor enthusiasts to take essential safety precautions during summer outings.
Scandals, a Portland LGBTQ+ bar, will close its Southwest Harvey Milk Street location on September 21 after 46 years in business. The owner cited COVID-19, rising costs, and changes in the downtown area as reasons for not renewing the lease, but plans to open a new family-friendly queer space on Northeast Alberta this fall.