In today’s news, Bullseye pollution levels down, ACA rates to rise and Measure 97 campaigns break fundraising record.
1. OHA finds lowered pollution levels at Bullseye Glass
The Health Authority reports airborne heavy metals are 98% lower than last year when the pollution issue first made headlines. OPB reports Bullseye has installed filters on 12 furnaces, with another six to be installed this month.
2. Obamacare rates rise again
Affordable Care Act rates will rise an average of 22% next year, OPB reports. But federal subsidies will also rise, according to the Obama administration’s report released yesterday. More than 70% of consumers on the federal marketplace are expected to pay less than $75 per month for insurance.
3. Measure 97 campaign costliest in Oregon history
The campaigns raised more than $33 million so far this election cycle, the Portland Business Journal reports. The next largest campaign was in 2014 for GMO labeling and raised $28 million. With two weeks to go, that dollar figure is likely to rise.
4. Economist says next recession won’t come from housing sector
Oregon Employment Department economist Damon Runberg said current economic growth is fueled by jobs. While he said another recession is waiting on the wings, the housing market won’t be the cause. In fact, the Bend Bulletin reports, Runberg encouraged more housing to remedy the shortage.
5. ‘Weird’ license plate creator battles with Department of Justice
Steve Barile launched a Kickstarter to fund an Oregon state license plate featuring the old PDX carpet logo and the slogan “Keep Portland Weird.” But Barile never received approval from the Department of Motor Vehicles to sell the specialty license plate. The DOJ issued a cease and desist order, but the entrepreneur says he has no intention to comply, as Willamette Week reports. Although as of 9 a.m. Tuesday, the Kickstarter was canceled.
6. Amazon opens another brick and mortar
The online retailer unveiled its third Amazon Books store at the Washington Square mall today. The first store opened in Seattle last year followed by a San Diego location last month. The Oregonian reports the brick-and-mortar stores are meant to help customers discover books they’ll love.
7. On the Scene: Native communities and natural resources
A Portland City Club panel explores the intersection between indigenous leadership, natural resource management and environmental justice.
