In today’s news, Portland signs on to Bloomberg public data program, Oregon water regulators ask for additional funding and Hanjin Shipping leaves Europe.
1. Portland joins “What Works Cities” program
The three-year program, operated by Bloomberg Philanthropies, teaches cities how to improve data use. The $42 million program doesn’t come with funding, instead offering a toolkit and guidance to create a more open data culture with the public and media, the Oregonian reports. Gresham joined the same program in June.
2. State water regulators ask for $3 million
The Oregon Water Resources Department is asking for an additional $3 million to fund 11 new positions. The positions will allow the department to better handle ground water depletion and water rights enforcement, the Capital Press reports. This ask comes after the Oregonian published a series on Oregon’s water resources alleging the department’s lack of oversight allowed for over pumping.
3. Hanjin Shipping Co. pulls out of Europe
Hanjin announced it will close its European operations this morning, the latest sign of the troubles facing the South Korean company. Hanjin pulled out of Portland last February, taking most of the Port’s business with it.
4. Eugene joins the city bike-share trend
Following in Portland’s footsteps, Eugene announced it will launch bike share program next fall. The bikes won’t be Nike orange, but will closely resemble Portland’s fleet. Social Bicycles signed on to staff Eugene’s program as well. The Register Guard reports the program is funded by a $900,000 state grant.
5. Bend candidates want to make land cheaper
A few local candidates want to change state law and allow Bend to expand its city limits, freeing up more land for housing. Candidates say the the lack of additional land caused the affordable housing crisis, the Bend Bulletin reports.
6. AT&T to create entertainment powerhouse
The phone service provider will purchase Time Warner Inc. for $85.4 billion. The purchase will make AT&T larger than the Walt Disney and Comcast partnership, according to the Oregonian. The deal still requires approval from federal regulators.
7. From the Magazine: Kicking Back
Society Nine muscles into women’s gear.
8. It’s not too late to sign up for our Hot Topics panel discussion tomorrow
The forum will focus on the Oregon marijuana market one year after legalization.
