Jefferson County, Oregon, is facing a mounting prosecutor shortage as former Wasco County DA Eric Nisley emerges as the only declared candidate for district attorney. The situation reflects wider challenges…
The Feed
February 27, 2026
Early special election returns show the Battle Ground Public Schools levy trailing, while the Hockinson School District SP&O renewal is leading with about 56% support.
The Feed
A probate notice has been filed in Clark County Superior Court for the estate of Kevin Lee Grove, with creditors advised to submit claims within the statutory deadline under Washington probate law.
The Feed
Washington legislators have advanced House Bill 1916, making it harder to challenge a voter’s registration. The measure raises procedural requirements and penalties, with implications for Cowlitz County’s election oversight.
The Feed
The Washington House has passed HB 1574, expanding Good Samaritan protections to shield overdose victims or callers from arrest—even for unrelated nonviolent charges—and allowing hospitals to provide lifesaving harm‑reduction supplies.
The Feed
Washington lawmakers advanced a bill this week that raises the penalty for impersonating law enforcement to a gross misdemeanor, increasing both jail time and fines and heightening deterrence for a growing public safety concern.
The Feed
Washington’s Senate has passed SB 5925 expanding the Attorney General’s investigative reach—triggering concerns over due‑process protections, gag orders, and possible impacts on local transparency.
The Feed
House Bill 2403, which would reduce penalties for repeat failure to register as a sex offender, is sparking sharp criticism from a former sheriff who warns it could undermine public safety across Cowlitz County.
The Feed
An InvestigateWest report shows that 160 teachers in Washington were disciplined for sexual misconduct since 2015—but almost half of those cases are hidden from public view when educators voluntarily surrender their licenses. A troubling transparency gap that could undermine student safety and parent trust.
The Feed
About 150 protesters disrupted a Tacoma City Council meeting on Feb. 10, demanding an end to the Northwest ICE Processing Center and calling on the council to divest from ICE. This follows broader organizing and highlights implications for oversight and civil liberties that resonate locally in Cowlitz County.
The Feed
Oregon’s congressional delegation, joined by community leaders and the governor, is mounting a unified pushback against proposed ICE detention plans in Newport amid concerns over transparency, safety, and environmental impacts.
The Feed
Wallace “Wally” Marthaller, a lifelong Longview farmer, businessman, and community employer, passed away February 1, 2026, at the age of 91. A celebration of life will be held March 7 at the Longview Moose Lodge.
The Feed
A federal judge has blocked ICE from arresting individuals in Oregon without a warrant unless they can demonstrate a risk of escape—affirming due process and quelling widespread fear among immigrant communities.
The Feed
