Federal Civil Rights Probe into Portland School Initiative Raises Questions for SW Washington Families

Education

Federal Civil Rights Probe into Portland School Initiative Raises Questions for SW Washington Families

Federal officials have opened a Title VI civil rights investigation into Portland Public Schools’ Center for Black Student Excellence. The findings could have implications for equity-focused programs in Southwest Washington.

Source: KGW

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Feb 18, 2026

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Federal Government

Statewide Data-Sharing Practices Raise Questions for Cowlitz County Drivers

UW researchers have identified continued federal access to Washington driver data through late 2025, raising oversight concerns for communities statewide, including Cowlitz County, which relies on the same law enforcement data systems.

Source: KGW

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Feb 18, 2026

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Business and Economy

Oregon’s Push for Hillsboro Tech Expansion Rekindles Farmland Debate — With Implications Up the I‑5 Corridor

Oregon’s proposed SB 1586 would open Hillsboro farmland to advanced manufacturing, reviving a long‑running land‑use conflict. The debate carries implications for Southwest Washington’s energy planning and regional industrial pressures.

Source: Oregon Public Broadcasting

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Feb 18, 2026

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Health

FDA Peanut Butter Recall Includes Shipments to Washington; Local Impacts Still Unclear

A federal Class II recall of single‑serve peanut butter packets includes Washington, with possible implications for schools and institutional kitchens in Cowlitz County. No injuries have been reported, but food service operators are urged to review inventory records.

Source: MyNorthwest

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Feb 18, 2026

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Environment and Climate

Kessler Boulevard Temporary Closure Announced for Tree Removal

A section of Kessler Boulevard will close daily this week for tree removal, with detours in place via 24th Avenue.

Source: Classic Hits 100.7 KLOG

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Feb 18, 2026

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Environment and Climate

Oregon’s Corner‑Crossing Bill Could Shift Western Land‑Access Rules — Here’s What It Means for Southwest Washington

Oregon lawmakers are weighing a bill that would legalize corner crossing between public land parcels. The decision could affect Cowlitz County residents who hunt or recreate in Oregon’s checkerboarded landscapes.

Source: Oregon Public Broadcasting

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Feb 18, 2026

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State Government

Washington Senate Approves Millionaires’ Income Tax Bill After Prolonged Debate

Washington’s Senate has approved a contentious income tax bill targeting million‑dollar earners, with local implications and a divided vote that included dissent from a Battle Ground‑area senator.

Source: The Reflector

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Feb 18, 2026

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Environment and Climate

Forecasters Say Lowland Snow Is Possible This Week in Cowlitz County

National Weather Service forecasters say a shifting cold-air pattern could bring snow to Longview and Kelso by mid‑week, though confidence remains low on where accumulation will occur.

Source: Oregon Public Broadcasting

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Feb 18, 2026

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Health

Cowlitz Indian Tribe Takes Ownership of NorthStar Treatment Clinic

The Cowlitz Indian Tribe has formally taken ownership of the NorthStar treatment clinic, a key regional provider of substance use and behavioral health services, effective Feb. 1.

Source: The Reflector

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Feb 18, 2026

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Transportation and Infrastructure

Rep. John Ley Proposes Independent Audit of I‑5 Bridge Replacement Project

Rep. John Ley has introduced a bill seeking an independent audit of the Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement Project to improve fiscal oversight and accountability as costs continue to grow.

Source: The Reflector

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Feb 18, 2026

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Courts and Justice

Cowlitz County Man Sentenced to 33 Months After Felony Harassment Conviction

A Cowlitz County man has been sentenced to 33 months in prison following a felony harassment conviction, according to an official county press release.

Source: Cowlitz County Citizen Resource Center

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Feb 18, 2026

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Community

Cloney Park Set for Transformation as Cowlitz County’s First Fully Inclusive Playground

Cloney Park in Longview is slated for a major upgrade this spring, with city officials announcing plans to build Cowlitz County’s first fully inclusive playground. The $4.37 million, grant‑funded project is set to begin construction in April.

Source: City of Longview News Flash

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Feb 18, 2026

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Columbia Countercurrent

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