Oregon

In rare move, Oregon Democrats tap a Republican to dig into road funding

Published

1 year ago

February 19, 2025

In rare move, Oregon Democrats tap a Republican to dig into road funding

State Sen. Bruce Starr, R-Dundee, will lead a legislative effort to drive spending accountability at the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB

As lawmakers search for money to prop up the beleaguered Oregon Department of Transportation, two of the agency’s sharpest Republican critics have a potentially influential new role.

Last week, the Legislature’s top Democrats put state Sen. Bruce Starr, a Dundee Republican, in charge of finding ways to force more accountability out of ODOT at a time when plenty of lawmakers suspect the agency has lost its way.

Starr immediately tapped state Rep. Shelly Boshart Davis — a trucking company owner and the top House Republican on transportation matters — to assist him “shoulder to shoulder” in that work. The duo are tasked with a powerful, but informal, assignment: figuring out whether ODOT really needs what it says.

The Democratic olive branch is a relative rarity in Salem, where the majority party typically prefers to handle high-profile jobs itself. It also comes with a risk: Giving Republicans a larger soapbox from which to question tax hikes Democrats say are highly likely.

“Our first instinct isn’t to raise taxes,” Starr said in an interview last week. “Our first instinct is, ‘Hey, are we getting the most bang for the existing dollar?’”

“If it weren’t for Republicans … asking questions,” added Boshart Davis, R-Albany, “I can tell you right now, the only conversation that would be had is, ‘How do we take more money from Oregonians?’”

Starr was still deciding last week whom he’d select to help him dig through ODOT’s budget, and he didn’t have a hard deadline for when recommendations would be ready. But he suggested the effort would have input from both Democrats and Republicans, and include experts from outside the Legislature.

“Maybe they’ve run large agencies before, maybe they’ve delivered mega projects in the past and understand how that should work,” Starr said. “Because right now, from where I’m sitting, the Oregon Department of Transportation can’t deliver big projects.”

ODOT has offered a bleak, yet sometimes shifting, picture of its financial straits.

Representative Shelly Boshart Davis, R-Albany, pictured on Feb. 5, 2024, Boshart Davis is on the Joint Transportation Committee in Salem.
*Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB*

In presentations last year, the agency told lawmakers it needed an extra $1.8 billion a year, warning of mass layoffs and an inability to pave state-owned roads. Today, the agency says it can avoid the worst outcomes with a mere extra $875 million a year.

Meanwhile, ODOT is billions of dollars short for projects that were supposed to be paid for by a $5.3 billion funding bill in 2017. And recent reporting by the Salem Statesman-Journal detailed sloppy accounting at the agency, ballooning project costs and an inability to easily track where money was flowing.

Democrats this year have said that increases to the state’s 40-cent-per-gallon gas tax and vehicle registration fees could be in order to help the agency pay its bills and finish promised projects — a sentiment Republicans have panned.

Both parties agree the Legislature has a role in forcing ODOT to be transparent and responsible with any money it gets.

A press release from Senate President Rob Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, and House Speaker Julie Fahey, D-Eugene, last week said Starr’s team will “review current ODOT accountability mechanisms and their effectiveness, while also studying where additional mechanisms should be added.”

Starr and Boshart Davis, both vice-chairs of the legislative Transportation Committee, seemed to have a more expansive notion of their work. Neither would rule out recommending that ODOT scrap its role in registering Oregon voters, or that the agency spend less money on public transit or amenities for bicycles — both targets of GOP scorn this year.

“In a situation where there’s, according to ODOT, not enough revenue to meet all the needs, maybe they’re doing some things that aren’t core to their mission,” Starr said. “That’s part of this effort.”

Starr has delved deep into ODOT before. In 2009, while representing Hillsboro in the state House, he helped navigate a major funding package for roads.

“Historically, transportation is one of those issues where folks put their shoulder to the wheel and try to find ways to work together,” he said.

Democrats say they’re showing that same spirit by giving Starr this authority. But Salem has changed in the last 16 years, and lawmakers often complain the House and Senate are more politically polarized than ever.

That was evident by Senate Minority Leader Daniel Bonham’s reaction last week to Starr’s new role.

“Turning to Republicans for help fixing this problem is the ultimate admission that Democrats lack the vision, creativity, and resolve to reform an agency riddled with mismanagement and misplaced priorities,” Bonham, R-The Dalles, said in a statement. “But if Democrats are only looking for cover to justify another tax hike, we won’t be their scapegoat”

Asked last week whether he agreed with that sentiment, Starr took a softer stance on Democrats, whose supermajorities in each chamber grant them power to pass new taxes on their own.

“Theoretically, they could do this on their own and just keep throwing more money into the agency,” he said, “I don’t think they want to do that.”

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Oregon

Oregon Lottery Pick 4 results for March 1

Published

10 hours ago

March 2, 2026

Press Room

The Oregon Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big.

Here’s a look at March 1, 2026, results for each game:

Winning Pick 4 numbers from March 1 drawing

1PM: 4-1-6-1

4PM: 6-5-5-6

7PM: 2-1-9-9

10PM: 6-2-5-4

Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

When are the Oregon Lottery drawings held?

Powerball: 7:59 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
Mega Millions: 7:59 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday.
Pick 4: 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. daily.
Win for Life: 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
Megabucks: 7:29 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by an Oregon editor. You can send feedback using this form.

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Oregon

Editorial: A legislative ‘solution’ that only creates more loopholes

Published

22 hours ago

March 1, 2026

Press Room

Editorial: A legislative ‘solution’ that only creates more loopholes

Legislators are bypassing a straightforward solution that would help ski resorts and other recreational providers stave off lawsuits claiming minor negligence and instead are overcomplicating the picture, the editorial board writes. Lawmakers should follow the example of other states rather than create its own path.

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Oregon

6 Friendliest Towns to Visit on the Pacific Coast in 2026

Published

1 day ago

March 1, 2026

Press Room

6 Friendliest Towns to Visit on the Pacific Coast in 2026

From Mount Baker’s soaring backdrop to the hillside village of Oceanside with its hidden tunnel beach, the Pacific Coast’s best moments often come in small-town America. Each waterfront has its own mix of boardwalks and marina sunsets, whether you’re strolling the sand in Brookings or catching the last light in Fort Bragg. Add in Victorian mansions, occasional Mediterranean-style flourishes, and that storybook, salt-air atmosphere that feels tailor-made for seaside fun. Below are the 6 friendliest towns on the Pacific Coast.

Brookings, Oregon

Aerial Drone Photo Overlooking Brookings, Oregon and the Pacific Ocean on a sunny day

Although easy to overlook at first, Brookings leaves a lasting impression once visited. Located near the southern tip of Oregon’s coast, just six miles from California, it offers long, sandy beaches ideal for beachcombing, swimming, and relaxing—often with fewer crowds thanks to the area’s “Banana Belt” climate. North of town, Harris Beach State Park provides stunning scenery, diverse trails, and a rocky pocket beach perfect for memorable photos. Chetco Point Park surrounds Macklyn Cove with peaceful oceanfront paths, tide pools, a scenic lookout, and picnic areas nestled among rocks.

Within town, you’ll find bars, grills, a brewery, and a charming selection of shops and galleries, including Manley Art Center & Gallery—ideal for a midday break or relaxing after sunset. During summer, Azalea Park hosts free concerts and features a bandshell, sports facilities, and kids’ play areas. Take a photo at Capella by the Sea, a unique wood-and-stone chapel built by film producer Elmo Williams, then cross the Chetco River to Harbor, another delightful nearby community. At Chetco Brewing Company, the beer is proudly “homegrown,” crafted with ingredients from the property—like Irish moss for clarifying—without pesticides, herbicides, or additives, resulting in a crisp, refreshing taste.

Depoe Bay, Oregon

Perched above the Pacific, Depoe Bay is a charming, compact town famously known as the world’s smallest natural navigable ocean harbor. Marine enthusiasts visit to see this up close, but that’s just part of the appeal. Combining its small-harbor claim with a larger reputation, Depoe Bay is celebrated as the whale-watching capital of the Oregon coast. From March to December, humpbacks, gray whales, and even orcas can be seen along with a variety of sea life. Unlike many locations where whale watching requires tickets, you can often view these giants for free during migration season from the town’s expansive observation deck.

Beyond whale watching, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Whale Watch Center, or arrange a trip with Dockside Charters and Whale Watching Tours—an ideal gift for nature lovers. The museum at Whale Research EcoExcursions costs less than $5 and is located right at the harbor. Bayfront hotels in Depoe Bay are a popular choice for couples, especially for special occasions like honeymoons. For a rugged shoreline experience, Depoe Bay Scenic Park, next to the iconic Arch Rock Café, provides spots for wading, picnicking, and photography. When it’s time to dine, Gracie’s Sea Hag offers exceptional oceanfront seafood along with a bar and vibrant music scene.

Fort Bragg, California

About 150 miles north of San Francisco, Fort Bragg feels even more remote—in the best way. The area’s loudest sounds are the soothing waves, and the stars are the only bright lights in the night sky. The air is fresh and crisp, and the streets are pleasantly quiet—thanks to the outdoor attractions that steal the spotlight, from quick dips in the ocean to birdwatching and year-round whale-watching. You can explore Noyo Harbor by kayak from the docks, or take a scenic ride on the Skunk Train (or a rail bike) through meadows and redwoods. For a relaxed day, visit the Glass Fire Art Glass Gallery, stroll the trails at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, then enjoy the sunset at Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, whose beam reaches 15 miles into the sea after dark.

Downtown Fort Bragg offers history walks, wine tastings, pub crawls with local brews, a cooking school, and the Discovery Center featuring a Blue Whale skeleton. Just south, many visitors go to Pomo Bluffs Park, a 25-acre area with benches and interpretive signs along the coastal trail for hiking and biking. Watch fishing boats bring in salmon, Dungeness crab, and abalone, then dine at The Wharf with waterfront views. For more open space, MacKerricher State Park provides wetlands full of birds and seal-watching opportunities, plus nearby Glass Beach, where colorful sea-tumbled glass sparkles like tiny treasures from the ocean.

La Conner, Washington

La Conner is a charming town nestled on a delta near the mouth of the Skagit River, and it’s the oldest town in Skagit County. Its historic downtown showcases beautiful architecture from the early 1860s, a period when pioneers like Alexander Underwood, Michael Sullivan, Sam Calhoun, and A.G. Tillinghast settled in the area shortly after the Civil War. Originally named Swinomish, the town was later renamed by John Conner in honor of his wife, Louisa A., following his purchase of John Hayes’ trading post in 1869. This marked the beginning of the town’s first post office and general store on the west side of the Swinomish Slough. With a proud history and a strong focus on preservation, the entire town is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, La Conner remains a vibrant community that still hosts the Swinomish Tribal Community. It beautifully combines the laid-back charm of a historic fishing village with the lively spirit of a well-loved artists’ colony. It’s also a peaceful wintering spot for graceful swans and Canada geese. Located along the stunning Salish Sea between Seattle and Vancouver, it’s a perfect place to relax and explore. Whether you visit in April for the colorful Tulip Festival or anytime throughout the year, you’ll enjoy browsing charming galleries, chatting with friendly locals, and admiring breathtaking views of Mount Baker reflected in the water. From the cheerful daffodils of March to classic cars and the lively “Brew on the Slough” event in October, La Conner’s welcoming calendar is packed with delightful events. Enjoy its unique boutiques, tasty dining options, and three fascinating museums—making it a wonderful weekend getaway.

Oceanside, Oregon

Oceanside feels wonderfully calming even before you arrive—true to its name, it’s a place that gently reminds you of just how much the ocean influences our world. It offers everything you might hope for: expansive horizon views, a tranquil beach, and a charming oceanfront café where time seems to slow down on purpose. Offshore, the stunning Three Arch Rocks—part of a protected wildlife refuge—anchor the breathtaking scenery. At Maxwell Point, the coastline creates a delightful illusion of distance and scale. During low tide, you can stroll through a tunnel to reach Tunnel Beach, then continue past rocky points to explore a series of secluded coves that feel like a hidden world miles away.

With cozy beach rentals and charming B&Bs, settling into a relaxed rhythm is easy: start your day with breakfast at Blue Agate Cafe, return later for comforting seafood, homemade desserts, and drinks at Roseanna’s Cafe, and wind down beneath the majestic silhouette of the arched rocks overhead. There are so many iconic spots to explore—Symons State Scenic Viewpoint, Lost Boy Beach, and the Short Beach Trailhead—all just a short hike or drive away. And despite its quiet charm, this community remains wonderfully laid-back, nestled into a hillside that feels like a natural amphitheater, offering sweeping views from Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site.

Tofino, British Columbia

A bird's eye view of Tofino. The community is spread across just a handful of streets — A bird’s eye view of Tofino. The community is spread across just a handful of streets

Stretching from Washington through Oregon and into California, the U.S. “West Coast” continues north into British Columbia. With geography on its side, Tofino is pure Vancouver Island charisma—wild beaches, moody skies, and the real possibility of spotting black bears. With access via a reasonably priced charter flight or a ferry-and-bus combo, it’s surprising that something this rugged and authentic sits so close to Vancouver’s bustle. Start your day at the beloved Rhino Coffee House, then choose your own pace: fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply sinking into the sands of Tonquin Park, which stretches from wilder Tonquin Beach near the tip to the calmer shoreline around Chesterman Beach.

Home to about 1,400 residents, including many surfers who share a love for whale-watching, Tofino proudly proclaims itself as the end of the Trans-Canada Highway. It offers a cozy selection of campsites, perfect for any adventure. Whether you’re riding the waves or quietly watching gray and humpback whales, just being here feels special — taking in the cedar-scented sea breeze as eagles soar above. Tofino completely avoids the chain-store scene, making it a truly relaxing retreat. Its mild climate features gentle winters and summers that are rarely too hot. For art lovers, Roy Henry Vickers Gallery highlights regional works, while Wolf in the Fog offers inventive, farm-fresh dishes and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting.

These colorful beachside towns greet you with captivating views, crashing waves, and ocean-fresh air—pairing old-world charm with a distinctly modern maritime culture. As varied as Washington, Oregon, California, and coastal British Columbia, they offer a little something for every kind of traveler. From Depoe Bay’s whale-watching scene to Fort Bragg’s wild coastline and Tofino’s surf-town spirit, spotting the ocean’s “friendly giants” is practically part of the itinerary.

And beyond the water, every slow turn down a quiet street reveals artisan boutiques, local eateries, and weathered cottages with real character. Whether you’re road-tripping the coast, escaping city noise, or overdue for a proper vacation, the blend of local life and wildlife delivers the kind of trip that stays with you. Watch whales from Depoe Bay, kayak Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg, then head north to Tofino for that far-flung, end-of-the-road feeling—without ever losing sight of the sea.

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