- Dec 10, 2014
A look at the amount of funding TriMet has received in payroll taxes, approved by Oregon's legislature in 2003, shows broken promises. Testimony was vehement that the payroll tax increase would result in increased services.
Cascade Policy Institute easily found this to be untrue. Not only have payroll taxes increased, fares and other funding sources increased as well. A quick look at TriMet's own numbers demonstrates that the expressed promise before Oregon's legislature was not fulfilled. Route service trends have dropped. Taxpayers and fare payers are paying more for diminished services.
Portland area residents and TriMet riders are free to reference these numbers when TriMet goes before Oregon's legislature asking for more.
Resources: Cascade Policy Institute
In 1997 Oregon's legislature introduced the salmon license plate. Car owner's were assured upon payment, $30 each renewal, were earmarked "directly to projects that address road-related impacts to salmon and trout streams."
What has the salmon plate funding paid for since 2013?
Car owners have paid for the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board's small grants administrator. An office position. Not opening culverts for fish.
Car owners can also sleep well knowing their voluntary fee is set to pay for future website improvements to make it possible to apply for online grants.
Yes, website. In the state of Oregon, having a state agency run a state government does not have a record of success for launch or fiscal responsibility. What could possibly go wrong?
Click here for the full story. The story goes on to quote conservationists opting to donate directly to other environmental groups.
Duly noted.
- Nov 24, 2014
In the week since KOIN Local 6 reported on the annual Seaside, OR Adolescent Sexuality Conference, local leaders, law enforcement and policy makers have taken the reigns.
Here is a list of those who plan to investigate the conference since the story ran:
Clatsop County Sheriff, Tom Bergin
Clatsop County District Attorney
House Education Committee including members, Representative Sherrie Sprenger and Representative Julie Parrish
City of Seaside
Those who are not investigating or returning calls:
Oregon Health Authority
Oregon Department of Education
See the full story here.
