Sisters Airport accused of misappropriating funds, Bend is third-fastest growing area in the U.S. and UO asks legislature for $100M in bonds.
Eagle airport misused $400,000 in grant money, ODOT says
The Oregon Department of Transportation is demanding the Sisters Eagle Airport repay its grant funding, the Bend Bulletin reports. ODOT found Sisters’ owner Benny Benson used funding meant for runway and airport improvements to pay himself, airport managers and two companies he manages. The misappropriation of funds was discovered during a review by ODOT following complaints that Benson was not using the grant funding as intended. ODOT says Benson must repay $390,185 by April 6.
Central Oregon one of fastest growing regions in the nation
Figures from the U.S. Census Bureau show the Bend-Redmond metro area has the third fastest growth rate in the nation, OPB reports. Crook County also tops the list as eight fastest growing county in the U.S. While Bend’s rate is based on a housing boom, Crook County can thank data centers and new solar projects for its growing population.
OB Original Blog: Portland businessman offers free ride to prison
Glenn Dahl wants to send Portland executives to prison. No, he’s not talking about incarcerating more white collar criminals.
UO puts pressure on legislature for state funding
The University of Oregon is asking lawmakers for $100 million in state bonds to help fund the Phil and Penny Knight Center of Accelerating Scientific Impact. The Knights gifted $500 million toward the project last fall. To lobby for their interests, school officials discussed the project with the House Committee on Higher Education yesterday, the Oregonian reports. Oregon schools statewide are feeling pressure to compete for funding, as the state faces a $1.6 billion shortfall.
Built Oregon launches consumer goods conference
The Built Up Festival will launch September 28-30th in Portland. Organizers want the event to eventually be the “SXSW of consumer products.” The event will feature discussions about the consumer goods industry as well as the marketplace and Oregon product mashups.
Tweet Scene: TechFest NW
Check out these highlights from Day one of TechFest NW.
Oregon Senate says ‘yes’ to increase of smoking age
A bill to raise the smoking age to 21 is now headed to the House, where it has bipartisan support, the Portland Tribune reports. If the bill passes, Oregon would be the third state to increase the legal smoking age from 18 to 21.
