Good evening. Here are the key updates across Oregon today:
State Senate Passes Transportation Funding Bill
After a drawn-out special legislative session, the Oregon Senate approved a bill to raise revenue for transportation projects and prevent layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
The measure, which has already passed the House and is expected to be signed by Gov. Tina Kotek, includes:
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An increase in the state gasoline tax
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A higher payroll transit tax
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Adjustments to various vehicle fees
Lawmakers said the increases are necessary to stabilize ODOT’s finances and keep vital road maintenance and infrastructure projects on track.
Oregon Leaders Push Back on Federal Troop Deployment
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump’s plan to deploy National Guard troops to Portland drew criticism from a coalition of Oregon mayors.
Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson, joined by 17 other city leaders, called the deployment unnecessary.
“There is no emergency, no insurrection, and no disaster taking place in Portland,” Knudson said.
In addition, the Oregon Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the federal move, arguing it undermines state sovereignty and inflames tensions rather than calming them.
Wildfire Smoke Advisory
If you’ve noticed haze in the air, it’s from the Moon Complex fire, burning in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest southwest of Roseburg.
The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency issued an air quality advisory affecting communities in the Coast Range, stretching from Mapleton to Veneta. Officials say conditions should improve tomorrow as a storm system pushes the smoke out.
Windy Weather Ahead
That same storm will bring high winds to the coast starting Tuesday, with gusts forecast at 40–45 mph. Inland areas, including Eugene and Springfield, could also experience strong winds as the system moves through. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and prepare for potential power outages.
Community Voices: History Museum Concerns
In local commentary, a letter to the editor raised questions about why the Lane County History Museum was not included in recent talks about the future of the Lane Events Center.
The discussion about redevelopment has sparked interest across the community, with some residents urging leaders to preserve and highlight the museum’s role in documenting local history.
Have thoughts on this issue—or another local topic? Readers are encouraged to submit letters (350 words or fewer) to lte@lookoutlocal.com for publication.
