1st AP Northwest News Minute

Here is the latest Oregon news from The Associated Press 

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon lawmakers have given final approval to an affordable housing package as one of their last acts of the session. The House gave final approval to a bill allowing cities to mandate that affordable housing units be included in some new developments, and another bill that expands the state’s housing supply for low-income families through certain programs.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The nation’s top prosecutor says additional charges will be filed “very soon” against those involved in the recent takeover at an Oregon wildlife refuge and praised Harney County residents for keeping their cool during the 41-day standoff. U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch made her comments during a visit to Oregon in which she recognized Portland’s community policing efforts and noted the improvement that its officers have made in dealing with the mentally ill. Lynch declined to say what specific charges will be filed.

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Conservation groups and anti-toxics organizations are pushing for three Oregon ballot initiatives that would ban post-logging aerial herbicide spraying and strengthen other forest laws. The Register-Guard reports that the groups have turned in 1,300 voter signatures in support of each initiative. Timber advocates say aerial spraying is the most economical and efficient way to kill fast-growing weeds.

BEND, Ore. (AP) — A Deschutes County Sheriff’s captain has resigned amid an administrative investigation. The Bend Bulletin reports that Capt. Erik Utter voluntarily resigned this week. Deschutes County’s Sheriff Shane Nelson says the resignation was without prompting and was not in lieu of termination. In an email to sheriff’s office staff, Utter said he was leaving to explore other opportunities.

 

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