Audit finds problems with Oregon housing agency, Google plans for renewable energy and Trump threatens Boeing deal.
1. Audit shows Oregon Housing & Community Services has department issues
A Secretary of State audit found the department lacks good internal/external communication, has low staffing with high workloads and a lack of valuable data, the Statesman Journal reports. The agency oversees state and federal subsidies for affordable housing and reducing homelessness.
2. Google announces renewable energy plan
Google unveiled its plan to cut reliance on coal, natural gas and other sources of carbon emissions in the next five years. That plan includes its data center in The Dalles, OPB reports. Google will source its power from renewable energy providers worldwide.
3. Trump threatens to ‘cancel’ Boeing Air Force One deal
The president-elect took to Twitter yesterday alleging the Air Force One deal is “out of control.” Boeing has a contract to build two new 747s to replace the 25-year-old Air Force One fleet for an estimated $3 billion. In response to Trump’s tweet, Boeing’s stock dipped slightly. The manufacturer, which employs 1,600 in Gresham, said it’s under contract at the moment to develop a plan for the new aircrafts to the tune of $170 million, the Oregonian reports.
4. In other airline news, Alaska Airlines merger with Virgin approved
Alaska will close its $2.6 billion deal to purchase Virgin America after it scales back its partnership with American Airlines, the Oregonian reports. Alaska agreed to the deal after the Justice Department filed a lawsuit blocking the sale.
5. UPS launches first eBike in Portland
This new electrically-assisted tricycle began delivering packages in Portland on November 21.
6. Social Media and Online Reputation Management forum today
Our panel discussion is happening now. Follow us on Twitter for the live feed.
.@247LS explains the benefits of @Snapchat pic.twitter.com/hMX4C1GZjO
— Oregon Business (@OregonBusiness) December 7, 2016
7. ICYMI, winter weather in store tomorrow
The National Weather Service is predicting snow and ice tomorrow, with 1-2 inches of accumulation in the morning, the Oregonian reports. The storm may not be akin to 2014’s Snowpocalypse, but harsh driving conditions are all but guaranteed.
