Tina Kotek

Governor Tina Kotek has issued two more drought declarations in Central Oregon.  The emergency declarations for Deschutes and Grant counties clear the way for state coordination of resources in an area now in its fourth year of drought.  ...

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has declared drought emergencies for Crook and Jefferson counties in the central portion of the state. That now directs agencies to prioritize assistance to the region. Both counties requested the declaration in January...

A new program is underway to use Oregon mass timber products to build small modular homes that can be moved anywhere in the state.  The hope is these smaller homes will help reduce the housing crisis across Oregon.  A $5 million grant from the Legislature with a federal match helped start the program and build the first six homes.   "It's goin...

Central Oregon’s Crook County remains the only place in the western United States under a D-4, or Exceptional Drought, designation.  And again, county leaders have asked for a state drought declaration.  County Judge Seth Crawford says he’s also talked with the Governor about funding a biomass plant that would use juniper trees to create power, but more studies are needed.   “Then we can go to dif

Oregon’s gubernatorial race was historic on several fronts, three former state lawmakers, all women, all making a strong showing in polls prior to election night.  Oregon State University Political Science Professor David Bernell said the outcome is also noteworthy, because it’s such a close vote.   “The third-p...