Why is rural journalism important? A class from USC is about to find out, thanks to a partnership with the Malheur Enterprise that will explore the roots and solutions for child poverty here.
Project managers confirmed that the Treasure Valley Reload Center is so far over budget that contractors are "talked into" not submitting invoices. Those on the board managing the shipping center and Malheur County Judge Dan Joyce and Commissioner Ron Jacobs ignored questions about the practice.
Construction has been stopped since December on the Treasure Valley Reload Center in Nyssa while project organizers scramble for more money. Now, they will ask legislators for help covering the shortfall, according to public records obtained by the Enterprise.
The public board managing the Treasure Valley Reload Center hasn't seen budget numbers since October but keeps spending. Greg Smith, project manager, assured the board financial commitments would not be made in excess of available funds – a claim contradicted by recently-disclosed public records.
As bills flow in, the county's development company learns the state is stopping payments for the Treasure Valley Reload Center. Contrract issues are tying up millions needed to finish the project.
Making housing affordable and easier to build, Gov. Tina Kotek maps out ambitious two-year spending plan for Oregon. She shared her proposed budget on Tuesday, Jan. 31.
Managers of the Treasure Valley Reload Center project haven't released a budget since October and an analysis shows the financial circumstances have worsened. A recent board meeting was canceled because project leaders weren't ready with update cost figures.
COMMENTARY: A handful of legislators is proposing how to prop up local news in Oregon - just as one of the state's largest dailies closes. Citizens and journalists need to respond.
Leaders of the Malheur County Development Corp. for weeks pronised but didn't deliver public documents about a controversial part of the rail project. Malheur County District Attorney Dave Goldthorpe ordered the documents be turned over to the Malheur Enterprise.
An investigation underway for months into the Nyssa School District is continuing. The state recently revoked the district's ability to run a money-making migrant education program.