Government

Facing closure due to rising costs, the Polk County Fairgrounds relies on a 5-year local option levy on the November ballot. At $0.12 per $1,000 of assessed value, the funds will repair vital infrastructure for an asset that hosts 700 events annually and serves as a crucial emergency shelter.

In a recent update, Senator Deb Patterson detailed legislative efforts to combat Oregon’s “K-shaped economy,” where inflation outpaces working-class incomes. Through bills like SB 1507, Patterson aims to lower the cost of living by defending core funding for healthcare, education, and tax credits.

This Memorial Day arrives while the United States is once again engaged in a dangerous and complicated conflict in the Middle East.

The weather is getting warmer and we are entering the summer season. Since the legislative session ended earlier this year, I have been getting out and about to meet with local leaders and community...