Morning Roundup


Photo credit: OPB

Outdoor recreation a $3 billion industry, PGE battles PUC and hotels settle with DOJ over eclipse bookings.

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As Portland gears up for a record-breaking heatwave this week, residents are collectively planning how to stay cool indoors. But the city’s much lauded outdoor retail industry has little to fear. A new report from the Outdoor Industry Association confirms what most of us already know: house-bound Portlanders are the exception not the rule.

The report found that outdoor recreation generates more than $3 billion in tax revenue in the Northwest and that about 70% of Oregon’s population partakes in outdoor activities. OPB has the story. 

Beer strains water treatment system. The influx of breweries in Bend may be good for tourism, but it’s negatively impacting the wastewater treatment plant. Breweries are increasing the waste processed by 5% to 10%. OPB has more.

PGE vs. PUC. Portland General Electric is planning for a 500-megawatt wind farm that could save money in the long run, but the utility needs approval from regulators. Public Utility Commission staff have already issued a recommendation against the facility, which they consider too risky. Check out the story from the Portland Business Journal. 

Hotels must pay customers over eclipse bookings. The Department of Justice settled with 10 hotels after investigating consumer complaints about rising rates and cancelled reservations in anticipation of the Aug. 21 event. The Grand Hotel in Salem, for example, must pay $500 to 22 guests who had already booked rooms. The Statesman Journal has more.

Speaking of hotels, Provenance’s latest opens today. Dossier, described as an upscale hotel with Old World hospitality, is located in downtown Portland. 

Lloyd EcoDistrict among first in nation. The project began in 2009 and is now one of 11 in line for EcoDistrict certification. Leaders of the green district say the certification won’t change operations much as they’ve been working on EcoDistrict goals for the past six years. The Portland Business Journal has the story.

Bend backs nonprofit grocer. Central Oregon Locavore is on the brink of closure. But a GoFundMe campaign is raising money to keep the doors open. So far $19,000 of a $25,000 goal is secured. The Bend Bulletin has more.

Most Popular Stories: July. Readers flock to stories about urban development, national politics and Nike’s Sean O’Hollaren.