The latest and most comprehensive coverage of local News, Sports, Business, and Community News stories in the Klamath Basin, Southern Oregon and around the state of Oregon from Wynne Broadcasting’s BasinLife.com, KFLS News/Talk 1450AM/102.5FM, The Herald and News, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call them at 541-882-6476.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
60% chance of rain this afternoon, high of 51 degrees. Overnight rain and snow mixed, snow level lowering to 4500 feet, low near 34. Little accumulation expected.
See Road Camera Views around the Klamath Basin:
Lake of the Woods
Doak Mtn.
Hiway 97 at Chemult
Hiway 140 at Bly
Hiway 97 at GreenSprings Dr.
Hiway 97 at LaPine
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Local fire crews acted swiftly to ensure that residents of a duplex that caught fire on Wednesday morning would likely be able to remain in their homes.
Klamath County Fire District #1 responded to reports of a structure fire in the Roosevelt area, with Battalion Chief 3103 being the first to arrive and confirm the presence of smoke and flames. 
Engine 3114 quickly assessed the situation, launching an aggressive attack that successfully extinguished the fire within minutes.
This incident was significant for the department, marking the first working fire for newly promoted Battalion Chief Sweeney, who effectively established command and coordinated the response. Additionally, it was the first working fire for Probationary Firefighter Daniel Herinckx, highlighting the ongoing development of the team.
Klamath County anticipates having around $290,000 in Title III project funds available.
The application period for grant requests will open on May 1, 2026, and close at 5:00 p.m. on May 29, 2026. Projects must align with one of the three Title III categories: Firewise, Search and Rescue, or Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Submissions that do not adhere to the specified category criteria outlined on pages 4-6 of the Project Submission Form, or that are received after the deadline, will be disqualified.
Title III of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, as renewed under Public Law 115-141, mandates a 45-day public comment period. Following this period, the Committee and Commissioners will evaluate the feedback and move forward with finalizing agreements.
It is expected that agreements for the approved projects will be executed by August 3, 2026. For further details and application submissions, please visit the Klamath County Finance Grants webpage.
Lake County District Attorney Paul Charas has announced his resignation after just over a year into his four-year term, attributing his decision to a persistent lack of funding that hampers his ability to effectively prosecute cases.
Charas expressed to OPB that the insufficient resources prevent him from fulfilling his duties in an ethical and moral manner.
Meanwhile, a Colorado company is proposing the construction of a biofuel plant in Lakeview, Oregon, aimed at producing jet fuel and diesel for Southwest Airlines and the U.S. Department of Defense, which could generate jobs but also increase air pollution.
The Lake County District Attorney’s Office operates on an annual budget of approximately $202,000, with most of the funds allocated to employee expenses, excluding Charas’s salary, leaving minimal resources for prosecuting crimes.
As the sole prosecutor in a county comparable in size to New Jersey but with a population of around 8,000, Charas often manages numerous cases simultaneously, which he finds personally challenging.
The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce is set to host the 2026 Klamath County Job Fair on Wednesday, April 22, at Linman Hall in the Klamath County Fairgrounds, located at 3531 S. Sixth St.
This event, running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., aims to connect local employers with job seekers, emphasizing hiring and workforce development. Job seekers are welcome to attend without prior registration, and they are encouraged to bring resumes to engage with various employers and explore job opportunities across different sectors.
Employers from the region can participate at no cost by reserving a booth to present their organizations and meet potential candidates.
Southern Oregon voters gearing up for the May 19 primary election must adhere to the state’s 21-day registration deadline, which falls on April 28.
This deadline is crucial for new residents registering to vote and for current voters wishing to change their political party affiliation. Oregon’s closed party primary system means that a voter’s registered party dictates the candidates they can choose on their primary ballot.
In this system, registered Democrats can only vote for Democratic candidates, while Republicans are limited to Republican candidates.
County Clerk Chris Walker clarified that non-affiliated voters or those from minor parties can only participate in nonpartisan races and measures during the primary, although they are not entirely excluded from the voting process.
Changing party affiliation before the April 28 deadline is a straightforward task; Oregon Representative Emily McIntire noted that the online process takes less than a minute. She advocates for this requirement, emphasizing that it fosters accountability within the electoral system.
John Watt, President and CEO of JWA Public Affairs, added that both major parties have maintained control over primary races for years and are reluctant to relinquish that power.
Chiloquin Visions in Progress Presents a Klamath County Candidates Forum
Community members are invited to attend the upcoming Candidates Forum for the May 2026 Primary Election, scheduled for Friday, April 24, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Chiloquin Community Center.
The forum will provide an opportunity for voters to hear directly from candidates running for Klamath County
Commissioner. This moderated event is designed to provide a fair and respectful setting in which candidates can share their perspectives, discuss key issues, and respond to questions
from the community.
The forum will be moderated by Christopher German, host of Coffee with the Candidates, who is a journalist and filmmaker here in Klamath County. He has interviewed many of the candidates running for office in this election, and as such, has a thorough understanding of the issues and challenges facing Klamath County residents.
Community members are encouraged to attend in person. An online viewing option will also be available for those unable to attend; register to view the online version at https://bit.ly/419iDGM.
In advance of the forum, residents are invited to submit questions for consideration by scanning the event QR code or visiting: https://forms.office.com/r/K4vQiuNvD2.
Candidate profiles are also available online to help voters learn more ahead of the event. To view candidate
information and additional details about the forum, visit: https://www.chiloquinvisions.com/election/.
“This forum is an important opportunity for our community to engage with candidates, learn about the issues, and
make informed decisions,” said Robert Cowie. “We encourage everyone to participate, whether in person or
online.”
For media inquiries, please contact: Robert Cowie, Executive Director. Robert@chiloquinvisions.com
Curt Dimmick, an experienced employee of the National Park Service, has been appointed as the new superintendent of Crater Lake National Park, effective May 17.
Dimmick, who previously served as the chief ranger at Crater Lake, takes over a position that has been temporarily filled since Kevin Heatley’s resignation in June 2024. With over 30 years of federal service, Dimmick currently oversees the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Oregon and will continue in that role until a permanent replacement is found.
His extensive background includes various leadership positions within the NPS, such as group superintendent for the Missouri National Recreational River and Niobrara National Scenic River, acting superintendent at Great Basin National Park, and chief of resource management and visitor protection at Pinnacles National Park, among others.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding political campaigns that placing signs within highway rights of way is prohibited.
ODOT regularly removes signs that are improperly positioned, as they can distract drivers, pose safety risks, and obstruct official road messages. Any campaign signs found in violation are taken down and stored at a nearby ODOT district maintenance office for a period of 30 days or until they are retrieved. While signs are permitted on private property visible from the highway, they must adhere to specific regulations, including a maximum size of 12 square feet.
Klamath Falls City Schools is proudly acknowledging its achievements in fostering stronger relationships, enhancing school culture, and promoting student success through the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program, receiving both statewide and national accolades.
The Klamath Learning Center has earned the prestigious title of National Showcase School from Capturing Kids’ Hearts, marking it as the first institution in Oregon to achieve this honor, which recognizes schools that have excelled in implementing CKH practices over multiple years.
Additionally, Conger Elementary School, Mills Elementary, and Pelican Elementary have been designated as Rising Star Campuses, a recognition given to schools that have shown outstanding implementation of CKH in their inaugural year.
These accolades highlight the collective efforts of the district’s staff, who, following comprehensive training in August, have diligently integrated CKH strategies into everyday practices across classrooms, offices, hallways, cafeterias, buses, and school grounds throughout the district.
Klamath Falls City Schools District and the Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees (KFACE) are pleased to announce that, with the help of an Employee Relations Board Mediator, they reached a tentative agreement on April 13, 2026, after engaging in constructive negotiations.
This agreement underscores the commitment of both parties to prioritize student support, staff appreciation, and the enhancement of the school community. Throughout the negotiation process, representatives from both the District and KFACE collaborated with respect, transparency, and a shared goal of developing solutions that benefit employees and the educational landscape.
In the coming days, details of the tentative agreement will be communicated to union members and district stakeholders. The agreement awaits ratification by union members and approval from the Klamath Falls City Schools Board.
The Klamath Falls City Council recently addressed community questions about the city’s Flock camera system.
Police Chief Rob Dentinger says the automated license plate readers, developed by Flock Safety, have been in use by the Klamath Falls Police Department since 2023.
Officials emphasized that, unlike traditional surveillance systems, these cameras do not record continuous video or use facial recognition. Instead, they capture specific vehicle information that can be securely accessed later to assist with investigations and crime prevention.
The system takes still images of passing vehicles and uses AI technology to read license plates. Each scan also logs the time, date, and location, along with details like the vehicle’s color, make, and model.
Law enforcement says the technology plays a key role in locating stolen vehicles, identifying cars tied to criminal investigations, and assisting in urgent cases such as missing persons and AMBER Alert.
The 107th annual Lake County Round-Up is set to take place on Saturday, September 6, at 7 p.m. at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Lakeview.
Revealed as well is the headline act: Jo Dee Messina.
Renowned for her powerful vocals and impressive array of hits, Messina will be accompanied by special guest John Morgan, a Grammy-nominated artist.
With nine No. 1 singles and 16 songs reaching the Top 40, Messina has received numerous accolades from country music organizations, as well as Billboard and Grammy Awards. Notably, she made history as the first female country artist to achieve three consecutive multi-week chart-topping songs.
Celebrated for her pivotal role in the resurgence of country music in the 1990s, her digital streams and YouTube views have surpassed the billions and continue to grow.
Student teams are gearing up to ignite the grills for the Klamath County School District’s second annual Iron Chef: Battle of the Schools on May 1st.
This barbecue competition will be held in Linman Hall at the Klamath County Fairgrounds, starting at 8 a.m., with teams setting up their barbecue stations outdoors.
Participants will demonstrate their culinary talents by preparing beef short ribs for the main course and pork tenderloin for the appetizer, with both meats generously supplied by Diamond S. For the first time, the event will open its doors to the public, allowing attendees to purchase tickets at the entrance and indulge in a complete tasting experience featuring appetizers, entrées with two sides, and desserts—all crafted by the student chefs.
Sig
nificant renovations are on the horizon for The Ross Ragland Theater, particularly concerning parking.
This summer, the theater will undergo a complete reconstruction of the parking area, which includes replacing the asphalt, curbing, and sidewalks.
The project is scheduled to take place from May through September.
As a result of these essential upgrades, our summer programming will be adjusted. Instead of hosting the much-anticipated Summer Musical, we are excited to announce a spectacular event in the fall: The 85th Musical Theater Celebration.
This special performance will feature an array of musical theater favorites, showcasing talented soloists, a full choir, dancers, and a live band. With beloved songs and dances, this family-friendly show promises to be a memorable experience.
Mark your calendars for August 21 and 22 at 7:00 PM, and August 23 at 2:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased at ragland.org or by calling 541-884-LIVE.
Abbey Road Brings Iconic Beatles Tribute Band to Klamath Falls, Wednesday, April 29th!
Experience the timeless sound of the world’s most legendary band when Abbey Road – Number Ones and More arrives at the Ross Ragland Theatre on Wednesday, the 29th at 7:00 pm.
This nationally celebrated Beatles tribute show promises an unforgettable evening of music, memories, and meticulously crafted performance.
From the moment the lights go down, audiences are transported across the Beatles’ evolution — from the early Ed Sullivan broadcasts to the technicolor dream of Sgt. Pepper and the introspective artistry of Abbey Road. With three full costume changes, authentic vintage instruments, and note-perfect renditions, Abbey Road recreates the Beatles’ most iconic eras with uncanny precision.
The setlist features a powerhouse collection of the Beatles’ biggest chart-toppers from both sides of the Atlantic — including classics like Hey Jude, Come Together, Can’t Buy Me Love, and Eleanor Rigby. Plus, die-hard fans will be delighted by a few unexpected deep cuts that rarely surface in tribute shows.
Having performed over 2,200 shows worldwide, Abbey Road has earned critical acclaim for its musical accuracy and captivating stage presence. The Los Angeles Times calls it “a show that delivers,” while the O.C. Register praises it as “smart and loads of fun.”
“Every night feels like a homecoming,” shares Chris Paul Overall, who steps into the shoes of Paul McCartney. “There’s an energy in the crowd — people singing, dancing, dressed up — it’s a full-on celebration of everything the Beatles stood for.”
This family-friendly performance is suitable for all ages and is expected to sell out quickly. Beatles fans, don’t miss your chance to relive the magic — one night only in Klamath Falls
Abbey Road- Tribute to the Beatles comes to the Ross Ragland Theatre on Wednesday, April 29 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $30- $45 and may be purchased by phone at 541.884.5483, at the Theatre Box Office or online at www.ragland.org. The Ross Ragland Theatre is located at 218 North 7th Street in Klamath Falls, OR 97601. Discounts for military and students. The show is appropriate for all ages.
Around the State of Oregon
Shots Fired During Apparent Break-In Attempt
On Tuesday, April 21, at approximately 4:55 a.m., officers with the Medford Police Department responded to a report of a person in mental distress in the 600 block of South Oakdale Avenue. A caller reported that a neighbor in an adjacent apartment was screaming and behaving erratically.
While officers were en route, additional information indicated that the individual was attempting to break into a neighboring apartment using an axe. The occupant of that apartment discharged a firearm, striking the suspect.
Upon arrival, officers located the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Julian Moon Haight, suffering from a gunshot wound to an extremity. Officers provided emergency medical aid until he was transported to a local hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
No other individuals were injured during the incident.
This case remains under investigation. Additional information, including any potential criminal charges, will be released as it becomes available.
Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was Unchanged at 5.2% in February
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in both February and January. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.4% in February and 4.3% in January.
In February, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 5,400 jobs, following a gain of 1,600 jobs, as revised, in January. February’s gains were largest in financial activities (+800 jobs). Losses were largest in transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-1,600 jobs); leisure and hospitality (-1,500); and professional and business services (-1,300).
Financial activities added 800 jobs in February, which was a rare monthly gain for the industry after persistent declines over the past three years. It employed 99,800 in February, which was down 1,100 jobs, or -1.1%, since February 2025.
Transportation, warehousing, and utilities employment was choppy in recent months, cutting 1,600 jobs in February following a gain of 1,500 in January. It employed 78,400 in February, which was 400 jobs, or 0.5%, above its year-ago level and close to its average employment throughout much of the past five years.
Leisure and hospitality cut 1,500 jobs in February following a gain of 1,200 in January. During the prior three years, it was remarkably steady, averaging just over 207,000 jobs.
Professional and business services continued its downtrend of the past three years, cutting 1,300 jobs in February and another 2,000 jobs in January. In the most recent 12 months, it cut 8,700 jobs, or 3.4%. Since February 2025, each of its three component industries contracted by more than 2%: administrative and waste services (-4,200 jobs, or -4.3%); professional and technical services (-3,200 jobs, or -2.9%); and management of companies and enterprises (-1,300 jobs, or -2.7%).
Two Dead in Reedsport House Fire; Suspect Arrested for Murder
REEDSPORT, Ore. – A Reedsport woman is in custody on murder charges following a residential house fire Thursday night.
On Thursday, April 16, 2026, shortly before 11:00 p.m., Douglas County 911 received a report of a structure fire in the 27000‑block of Lower Smith River Road. Callers reported individuals were unaccounted for and possibly still inside the residence.
Deputies and firefighters responded to the scene. Upon arrival, deputies attempted rescue and located one individual who was pulled from the house. Despite lifesaving efforts, the 65‑year‑old victim was pronounced deceased. A second victim, aged 67, was also located inside and declared deceased. A third individual was able to escape the residence and was uninjured. Identification of the victims is being withheld pending next‑of‑kin notification.
Deputies contacted a female at the scene, identified as 41‑year‑old Pamela Anne Westfall of Reedsport, who was detained. Westfall admitted to intentionally starting the fire inside the residence. Early indications suggest the fire began following a disturbance.
Westfall was arrested and lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:
• Murder in the First Degree (2 counts)
• Attempted Murder
• Arson in the First Degree
• Warrant Arrest
The Douglas County Major Crimes Team is continuing to investigate the incident. The Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigative agency. The Major Crimes Team consists of investigators from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department, and Oregon State Police, working in consultation with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.
Additional assistance was provided by the Winchester Bay Fire Department, Reedsport Fire Department, Gardiner Fire Department, Oregon State Police Arson Investigation, Oregon State Police Crime Laboratory, Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, and Reedsport Police Department.
The investigation remains ongoing.
President Trump has issued a Disaster Declaration for the severe storms that struck Oregon in December.
These storms brought unprecedented rainfall and strong winds, leading to extensive flooding, landslides, and mudslides across the state.
At the height of the crisis, over 300,000 residents were left without electricity, numerous highways and interstates were shut down, and a fatality was reported in Yamhill County.
This declaration enables Public Assistance funding for nine counties, allowing them to address eligible expenses related to damage to roads, bridges, utilities, and other public infrastructure.
Juan Serratos Named director of Paid Leave Oregon
SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has named Juan Serratos as the new Director of Paid Leave Oregon. Serratos has served as acting director of Paid Leave since July 2025 and has been part of the program’s leadership team since 2022. He has played an integral role in helping Paid Leave become a reliable source of support for workers and families across Oregon and a model for paid family and medical leave programs nationwide.
“Juan has a unique skill set and proven experience building and leading one of Oregon’s most important public service programs,” said Oregon Employment Department Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “He brings deep operational knowledge, strong leadership, and a commitment to serving Oregonians. Paid Leave Oregon is in good hands under Juan’s leadership.”
Serratos joined Paid Leave Oregon in January 2022 as deputy director after leading the Unemployment Insurance Benefits Services section beginning in 2019. He brings more than 17 years of public service experience, including work at Human Solutions, the Oregon Department of Human Services, and the Oregon Department of Justice. At OED, he helped rapidly build up the Benefits Services team during the pandemic response and has been a key leader in building Paid Leave Oregon from the ground up.
Since launching benefits in 2023, the program has become an essential part of Oregon’s support system for workers and families across the state. In 2025, the program served 103,000 people and their families and paid out more than $783 million in benefits.
“I’m proud of what this team has built,” said Serratos. “We’ve created a program that Oregonians can count on during some of the most important moments in their lives. I’m honored to continue leading this work as we strengthen customer service, keep the program running well, and make sure it remains sustainable and dependable for the people who rely on it.”
Paid Leave Oregon provides benefits to workers who need time away from work for some of life’s most important and difficult moments. The program supports employees who need to care for themselves or a family member with a serious medical condition, bond with a new child after birth, adoption, or foster placement, or take safe leave related to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment.
Through partial wage replacement, Paid Leave Oregon helps workers take needed time off without losing all of their income, and it helps employers retain experienced employees who might otherwise be forced to leave the workforce. Eligible employees can receive up to 12 weeks of benefits per year, helping reduce the pressure to choose between a paycheck, a job, and caring for themselves or their families. Learn more at paidleave.oregon.gov.
Safe Digging Month Reminds Oregonians to Contact 811 Before Digging
SALEM, Ore. – In recognition of National Safe Digging Month, the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC), Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), and Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) remind Oregonians to contact 811 before starting projects that involves digging.
Whether a professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer, all play an important role in preventing damage to underground utilities. Contacting Oregon 811 before you dig helps prevent serious injuries and avoid costly damage to essential utility services. There are three easy steps to safe digging in Oregon:
- Submit a locate request at least two business days before digging at Oregon811.com or by calling 811
- Wait for utility crews to mark the underground lines
- Dig carefully
After a locate request is submitted, the OUNC notifies the utility companies that provide service to the area. Utility crews then visit the site and mark the approximate location of the underground lines, pipes, and cables able to be located, at no cost to the homeowner or contractor.
Meanwhile, employers must follow Oregon OSHA requirements to protect workers against the potential hazards of underground utilities. Those requirements include:
- Notifying OUNC of the proposed area of excavations at least two working days before starting an excavation.
- Estimating the location of utilities before opening or extending an excavation.
- Determining by safe and acceptable means the exact location of the estimated utility installations when excavation activities approach them.
- While excavations are open, underground installations must be protected, supported, or removed as necessary to safeguard employees.
Oregon OSHA offers employers free consultations – no fault, no citations, no penalties – to improve workplace health and safety programs and practices. It also offers free technical help with understanding and applying workplace safety rules.
Most utility line strikes happen during the warmer months, when construction and landscaping activity increases. National data shows that in 2024, an estimated 196,977 instances of damage occurred across the country, and 17 percent were caused by failing to contact 811.
For more information or to submit a locate request, visit Oregon811.com or call 811.
A federal judge in Eugene has ruled in favor of Oregon Right To Life, determining that the nonprofit is not subject to the state’s Reproductive Health Equity Act under the First Amendment.
Governor Tina Kotek criticized the ruling, asserting that the 2017 law is fundamental to Oregon’s commitment to providing access to reproductive healthcare.
Oregon’s Attorney General Dan Rayfield noted that the full implications of the ruling remain uncertain until the written opinion is released, although he believes its effects may be confined to a religious exemption claim made by a single organization.
Recent sightings of gray wolves in areas such as Butte Valley, parts of Modoc and Siskiyou counties, and various national wildlife refuges have prompted the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office to advocate for revisions to both California and national wolf management policies.
Currently, gray wolves are classified as an endangered species at both the federal level and in Oregon and California, which imposes significant penalties, including potential jail time and hefty fines, on individuals, particularly ranchers, who kill a wolf.
Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue has called for these reclassifications following a rise in reports of gray wolves near residential areas. For instance, a resident in Butte Valley recently reported seeing two adult gray wolves approximately 80 feet from their home during the day, noting that the animals did not immediately retreat from human presence and appeared to be stalking the family’s dogs.
Oregon is exploring innovative technology to monitor endangered bird species in its state forests, shifting from traditional nighttime surveys that require biologists to navigate challenging terrain in darkness.
The Oregon Department of Forestry has implemented Autonomous Recording Units to track northern spotted owls and marbled murrelets, allowing for the automatic recording of bird calls over extended periods without the need for human presence in the forest.
In contrast, conventional surveys are conducted only once per site at night, necessitating biologists to drive along unlit gravel roads and hike into dense, trail-less forests, often enduring hours of difficult conditions, including rain.
This outdated approach is becoming increasingly ineffective as barred owls encroach on the habitat of spotted owls, which are now found at higher elevations and are less likely to respond to calls, as doing so risks revealing their location to the competing species.
The U.S. Forest Service announced yesterday that it will allocate $248 million in Secure Rural Schools payments for 2025, providing essential funding to states and counties with National Forest System lands.
This financial support is vital for sustaining public education, maintaining local infrastructure, enhancing wildfire preparedness, and facilitating other critical services in rural areas.
The 2025 payments encompass Title I, Title III, and 1908 Act allocations, which are instrumental in funding education, transportation, and community services.
Additionally, these funds bolster local wildfire readiness by supporting Firewise Communities programs, reimbursing counties for emergency services related to national forests, and aiding the development of Community Wildfire Protection Plans, thereby improving safety and coordination with Forest Service wildfire response initiatives.
OHCS offers weatherization workforce training through Oregon Training Institute
SALEM, Ore. — In recognition of Earth Day, Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is highlighting its investment in a more sustainable future through hands-on weatherization training at the Oregon Training Institute (OTI). OTI’s training and workforce development programs prepare workers across Oregon to improve home energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and create healthier living environments, especially for low-income households.
“Weatherization plays a vital role in alleviating the energy affordability burden faced by many Oregonians through necessary home upgrades – adding insulation, replacing heating or cooling systems, and improving
Located in Salem, the OTI’s weatherization training facility equips participants with the technical skills needed to upgrade existing homes, reduce energy use, and address critical health and safety concerns.
The training program serves a wide range of participants with varying degrees of experience. Through hands-on instruction, participants learn how to install energy-saving materials, conduct diagnostic testing, and ensure homes are safe and properly ventilated before improvements are made.
“Weatherization is very focused on the best outcomes we can have for our low-income communities and neighbors,” said Director of the Oregon Training Institute Drew Sizemore. “Any of the work we do here is to better the outcomes of weatherization work and better the outcomes for people that are in our communities.”
Participants like Graham Hill, a Clackamas County employee, say the training has deepened both their technical knowledge and their connection to the communities they serve.
“This training will ultimately benefit people that really need the help that can’t afford it or have some kind of barrier to getting that service,” Hill said.
The workforce development
“Part of that gap is one of the reasons we started the workforce development program. We can pre-train people and get them experience ahead of time,” Sizemore said.
Weatherization improvements also lower monthly utility costs, improve indoor air quality, and make homes safer for residents. These benefits are especially impactful for households facing high energy burdens or living in aging housing stock.
With support from state and federal funding, OHCS and OTI continue to expand access to training and strengthen Oregon’s weatherization workforce, helping communities across the state become more resilient in the face of rising energy costs and climate challenges.
As Sizemore put it, the impact of this work is far-reaching.
“Everything from helping communities reduce their energy burden, also just allowing folks to live in a healthy home environment. There are not many aspects of our clients’ lived environment that our work does not positively impact.”
About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
Scammers are targeting individuals with deceptive text messages claiming they owe money to the Oregon Department of Transportation or DMV, and these messages are not harmless jokes.
These fraudulent texts often mention unpaid tolls, license suspensions, or traffic violations and include links to counterfeit websites designed to capture your personal and financial information. It is important to remember that ODOT and DMV will never request payment via text, email, phone call, or third-party sites.
Scammers aim to create a sense of urgency to prompt quick action, so it is crucial not to respond, click on any links, or share personal details. Instead, block the number and delete the message.
Such scam texts frequently use alarming phrases like “urgent notice” or “final enforcement,” warning of potential license suspensions or increased fines if immediate payment is not made
Outdoor debris burning, commonly referred to as backyard debris burning, is the primary cause of human-induced wildland fires in Oregon.
The Oregon Department of Forestry typically responds to approximately 225 fires annually that stem from uncontrolled debris burns.
To mitigate this risk, all residents are urged to utilize the new statewide Before You Burn website or mobile application before igniting any debris, whether it involves a small pile or a burn barrel. The Before You Burn platform offers straightforward guidance on burning regulations and safety measures tailored to individual locations.
Oregonians can easily sign up for free by downloading the Before You Burn app, available on both Apple and Android devices, or by visiting the beforeyouburn.net website.
Once on the platform, users are prompted to input their address, which allows them to quickly determine if burning is permitted in their area. If it is allowed, they will receive detailed instructions regarding local regulations, including the need to register a burn or obtain a permit.
Oregonians have a wide array of choices when it comes to license plates. Options range from elephant-themed plates to those featuring the Ducks or Beavers, as well as designs showcasing bees and Smokey Bear.
Each of these unique plates comes with an additional fee, with proceeds supporting various causes such as zoos, colleges, and forest conservation.
Now, for the first time, golf enthusiasts in Oregon will have the opportunity to express their passion through a dedicated license plate. This new design will be available for order from the Department of Motor Vehicles starting Tuesday, April 28.
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