The Opioid Settlement Board allocates $13 million for Oregon's Behavioral Health Resource Networks (BRHNs)Oregon Health Authority - 01/20/26 4:37 PM
January 20, 2025
Media Contact: Kim Lippert, 971-323-3831, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov
The Opioid Settlement Board allocates $13 million for Oregon's Behavioral Health Resource Networks (BRHNs)
PORTLAND, Ore.—The Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Board (OSPTR) on Wednesday allocated $13 million for the state’s Behavioral Health Resource Networks (BRHNs). This investment will help to close a funding gap for continued BRHN services and demonstrates the Board’s commitment to leverage the settlement funds to strengthen Oregon’s substance use disorder services infrastructure.
“The Opioid Settlement Board continues to step up to address the opioid epidemic, but we must continue to balance the tension between maintaining newly built infrastructure and funding innovations that will lead to long-term system improvement,” said Board Co-Chair Annaliese Dolph.
The BHRNs were established as a direct result of Oregon voters passing Measure 110, the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act, in November 2020. BHRN providers deliver services and support for people with substance use disorders, regardless of their ability to pay, statewide.
The BRHNs are funded through cannabis tax revenue. However, an excess supply of marijuana has driven down market prices, resulting in a $100 million funding shortfall over the past 18 months. Experts also predict future declines in revenue.
To minimize future uncertainty and to keep within fiscal constraints, OHA will make annual adjustments to BHRN grant awards each July to align with the most current revenue projections.
The new funding, from the OSPTR Board, is a welcome boost for the 36 networks throughout Oregon and reduced a projected 27% reduction over the next year.
Each BHRN responds to local needs by offering screenings, assessments, treatment, peer support, harm reduction services and housing support. From 2022 through 2025, BHRN grantees reported about 3 million client encounters, serving hundreds of thousands of people across Oregon.
“This funding is critical to keeping lifesaving behavioral health services available in communities across Oregon,” said OHA Behavioral Health Director Ebony Clarke. “This critical investment helps stabilize essential services so people can continue to access care, regardless of their ability to pay.”
This Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Fund, which is the state portion of Oregon’s opioid settlement funds, is overseen by the 18-member OSPTR Board.
Since July 2021, the State of Oregon has reached agreement on national lawsuits against several companies for their role in the opioid crisis. Through these agreements, over $700 million will be awarded to Oregon through 2039. Settlement funds are divided between the State of Oregon (45%) and local jurisdictions (55%).
To learn more about Oregon’s opioid settlement funds, visit oregon.gov/opioidsettlement
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Oregon State Marine Board - 01/20/26 2:00 PM
The Oregon State Marine Board will hold its quarterly board meeting on January 29, beginning at 8:30 am at the agency’s office, 435 Commercial St. NE, Suite 400, in Salem.
Several items will be presented as informational only. Staff will also seek board direction and consideration of rulemaking on several other items.
Agenda Highlights:
- Director’s Agency Report
- Agency Budget Discussion – Board direction
- Don Lindley Property Discussion -Informational
- Boating Safety Section – Program updates
- Ana Reservoir Petition – Consideration for slow–no wake zone and potential rulemaking
- Upper Rogue River – Informational briefing
- Waterway Access Permit – Whitewater exemption, OAR 250-010-0760, board vote
- Siletz River Proposed Rulemaking – Board direction
- Executive Session pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(i), Agency Director review
Public comments will be accepted in writing or during the meeting’s public comment period. To provide oral testimony, register by 5 p.m., January 25, with Jennifer Cooper at .cooper@boat.oregon.gov">jennifer.cooper@boat.oregon.gov or by mail: Oregon State Marine Board, Attn: Jennifer Cooper, 435 Commercial St. NE, Suite 400, Salem, OR 97301.
Meeting materials and live stream link are available on the agency’s Public Meetings page.
Meetings are conducted using the Microsoft Teams application, and viewing may require the installation of a free Teams app on mobile devices.
-End-
The Marine Board is funded by boater-paid fees and marine fuel taxes—not lottery or general fund tax dollars. These funds support boating safety, education, environmental programs, and waterway access facility improvements statewide.
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Marine Board
971-707-2396
ashley.massey@boat.oregon.gov
Oregon Health Authority - 01/20/26 11:26 AM
January 20, 2026
Media Contact: Kim Lippert, 971-323-3831
erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov
OHA, Jackson Street Youth Services celebrate Albany Youth Center opening
Albany, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) joined Jackson Street Youth Services at a celebration Jan. 14 for a new youth center made possible by state investments that expand where young people in Oregon can get care. The new Albany Youth Center will support youth with early intervention, prevention and youth-focused behavioral health services.
Community leaders celebrate the ribbon cutting for Jackson Street Youth Services in Albany, expanding access to shelter and support for local youth
“When young people are in crisis, we need to meet them where they are and provide the stability, care, and dignity they deserve,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. “I’m committed to building more community-based, youth-centered spaces like this across the state because early support and prevention strengthen and improve long-term outcomes and create healthier communities for everyone.”
Through House Bill 5030, passed in 2023, OHA contributed more than $400,000 to support the development of the facility. The center provides youth experiencing homelessness with access to a kitchen, laundry and showers.
With $10 million in expansion funding dedicated to youth residential services and an additional $7 million invested in intensive in-home behavioral health programs that integrate substance use treatment for youth with co-occurring needs, Oregon is making a significant commitment to strengthening its continuum of care.
“There is tremendous value in investing upstream and supporting young people early,” said OHA’s Behavioral Health Division Director Ebony Clarke. “By increasing access to trauma-informed, culturally specific behavioral health resources, we improve long-term health outcomes, support youth success and reduce the likelihood of more intensive behavioral health needs later in life.”
OHA shares the Jackson Street Youth Services’ goal of supporting the health and well-being of youth in Oregon through access to behavioral health care, early intervention and prevention services.
“This building represents far more than bricks and mortar,” said Kendra Phillips-Neal, executive director, Jackson Youth Services. “It represents nearly two decades of learning, growth, persistence and an unwavering commitment to young people experiencing homelessness.”
By removing barriers to care, expanding access and building sustainable, community-centered systems, OHA and partners continue to address the evolving needs of Oregon’s youth and families. Jackson Street Youth Services’ trauma-informed approach will foster safety, dignity and respect while equipping youth with the tools and services they need to thrive.
The Albany Youth Center is located at 1025 Pacific Blvd. SE, in Albany. It serves as an outreach hub and provides crisis stabilization services to youth. For more information, call the Jackson Street Youth Services 24-hour hotline at 800-901-2904.
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DEA Seattle - 01/20/26 10:57 AM
Defendant Admitted Replacing Diverted Drugs with Saline, Impacting Treatment of More Than 200 Animals
PORTLAND, Ore. — Dr. Brenda Brown-Carlson, a Portland veterinarian, was sentenced to 60 months of supervised probation on January 13, 2026, in Multnomah County Circuit Court as part of a plea agreement. Brown-Carlson admitted to diverting controlled substances for her personal use and replacing them with saline, impacting the treatment of more than 200 animals at two veterinary clinics where she was employed.
“DEA has a long-standing relationship of trust and partnership with veterinary providers who are authorized to handle and administer controlled substance to care for animals that are sick,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “ Ms. Brown-Carlson abused that relationship and trust by diverting prescription drugs for her own personal use and, in doing so, compromised the care of more than 200 animals.”
Brown-Carlson pled guilty to one felony count of Tampering with Drug Records, two felony counts of Computer Crimes, and one felony count of Attempted Animal Neglect in the Second Degree.
According to court documents, Brown-Carlson diverted hydromorphone, a Schedule II controlled substance, buprenorphine, a Schedule III controlled substance, and butorphanol, a Schedule IV controlled substance, for her own use. Rather than administering the appropriate doses of these medications, animals undergoing surgery and medical procedures received diluted doses, compromising their care.
Co-workers became aware of drug discrepancies and reviewed the clinics’ computerized drug-dispensing machine, records, and surveillance video. Video footage showed Brown-Carlson diverting controlled substances and refilling vials with saline.
The veterinary clinic reported the diversion to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Portland in February 2024. A Diversion Investigator from the DEA Seattle Field Division, Portland District Office, initiated an investigation and reviewed the evidence. During an interview, Brown-Carlson initially denied the diversion, even after being shown video evidence, and later admitted to the conduct, showing little remorse. She surrendered her DEA Certificate of Registration during the interview.
Following testimony by the DEA Diversion Investigator before a Multnomah County Grand Jury, a state indictment was issued. Brown-Carlson was arrested and charged with 14 felony counts of Tampering with Drug Records, 13 felony counts of Computer Crimes, and two felony counts of Animal Neglect in the Second Degree, involving more than 40 animals.
As part of the plea agreement, Brown-Carlson ultimately pled guilty to reduced charges and was sentenced to 60 months of supervised probation. Conditions of probation prohibit her from being employed by any business whose primary purpose is the treatment of animals. She is also prohibited from having contact with animals during probation, except that she may own and care for her own pets. She may not provide veterinary care for her own pets or for the pets of others, and may only have contact with other pets in the presence of their owners.
“This sentence makes clear that drug-related crime has consequences, but it also acknowledges that meaningful accountability includes addressing addiction through structured treatment to reduce the risk of re-offending in the future,” said Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez.
Action by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board regarding Brown-Carlson’s state veterinary license is pending. Civil penalties for violations of the Controlled Substances Act related to her DEA Certificate of Registration are also pending.
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Wapato Sch. Dist. - 01/20/26 10:39 AM
Good morning,
Please see the attached release regarding Wapato High School’s annual Bean Feed.
It is a fundraiser for cancer patient care in the Valley and anyone who wants to come enjoy a good meal and support a good cause is invited, so anything you can do to spread the word about this upcoming event is much appreciated.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Wapato Public Schools
Community Relations/Title 1 Parent Engagement Coordinator
mikeb@wapatosd.org
Desk: (509) 877-5019
Cell: (509) 307-4923
www.wapatosd.org
Oregon Health Authority - 01/20/26 9:07 AM
January 20, 2026
Media Contact:
Max Sprague, ague@OHA.Oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Max.Sprague@OHA.Oregon.gov, 971-288-9420
Governor Kotek Secures $25 Million for OHA and Hospitals to Protect Maternity Care
State health and hospital leaders unite to keep care local and strengthen community health.
SALEM, Or. – Governor Tina Kotek announced today a coordinated effort with Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Hospital Association of Oregon to stabilize and sustain labor and delivery services across the state. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to keeping care local, supporting new families, and ensuring hospitals are sustained through higher rates for maternity costs.
"Every Oregon family deserves access to safe, local maternity care,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. “By bringing together public and private partners, we are aligning policy and funding to keep care close to home. This investment is about more than dollars—it’s about taking steps forward to sustain the health and vitality of communities for generations to come."
Investing in Maternity Care
Recognizing that maternity care is foundational to healthy communities, the governor requested funding from the legislature to stabilize hospital operations. The Governor has directed OHA to distribute $25 million of General Funds in a targeted way following input from impacted hospitals:
- $15 million will provide stabilization payments to smaller, rural hospitals that offer maternity services. These hospitals have fewer than 50 beds and may or may not be within 30 miles of another hospital. OHA will be identifying options to match these funds federally for maximum, direct impact prior to distribution.
- $10 million, multiplied by federal match for an even greater impact, will be invested in larger hospitals through Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) rates and is reflected in the 2026 coordinated care organization (CCO) rates.
“Hospitals are facing mounting challenges in keeping the services available that Oregonians rely on,” said Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon. “This boost in payments is a good first step toward stabilizing maternity services—especially in rural communities—and demonstrates what’s possible when state leaders and hospitals work together toward shared goals.”
Why Stabilizing Maternity Care Matters
Strong local maternity systems promote healthier starts for babies, which translates into better long-term health, educational, and economic outcomes for states and communities. Across Oregon and the nation, smaller, rural hospitals face mounting challenges in sustaining maternity services. Workforce shortages and increasing healthcare costs have forced some hospitals to close labor and delivery units, leaving families to travel long distances for care. These closures can have lasting impacts on maternal and infant health outcomes, as well as the vitality of rural communities.
The governor’s investment aims to reverse that trend by providing targeted support where it is needed most. Stabilizing maternity care requires shared responsibility among state agencies, hospitals, policymakers, and insurers. This approach will maximize state resources for hospitals while navigating federal limitations under House Resolution 1, also referred to as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
"Maternity care is the cornerstone of healthy communities,” said Dr. Sejal Hathi, Director of OHA. “These investments will help stabilize hospitals that provide this critical service and ensure families can continue to rely on care in their own communities. We are proud to work with the governor and our partners to make this happen."
For a list of hospitals by type, please refer to OHA’s Oregon Hospital Types document.
Walla Walla Sch. Dist. - 01/16/26 6:03 PM
Supporting documents are available via the following link: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/997
Board of Directors Meeting Schedule & Information: https://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/board-meeting-schedule
Walla Walla Public Schools
Executive Assistant to the
Superintendent of Schools
509-526-6715
vesparza@wwps.org
City of Richland - 01/16/26 5:25 PM
The City of Richland has received 24 applications from the following individuals seeking appointment to fill the vacant City Council Position No. 4:
Chrystyanna VanDyke
Leisa Moore
Andrew Rice
Todd Samuel
Anna Tadlock
Kyle Palmer
Britton Creer
Colleen Lane
Michael Shane Thorson
Anthony Sharpe
Heidi Mortensen
Kyle Saltz
Ragan Faylor
Pete Rogalsky
Nathaniel C. Davis
Devin Sutherland
Nathan Miller
Roy Keck
Samantha Mason
Kurt Schweiger
Mary Lipton
Eileen Harbertson
Edward Munoz
Colin Michael
More information on each applicant can be found at richlandwa.gov/bccvacancies.
The application period closed on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
The Richland City Council will review all applications during an executive session following the City Council meeting on January 20, 2026, at which time they will determine which candidates will advance to the interview portion of the process.
In-person interviews will be conducted during a special meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, held prior to the regularly scheduled City Council workshop. The interviews will be open to the public but will not be broadcast. Following the interviews, the City Council will deliberate in a closed executive session as allowed by RCW 42.30.110(h). Should Council desire to take final action to appoint a candidate as authorized by the Richland City Charter, that action will occur immediately following the executive session. The regular City Council workshop will follow and will be broadcast as normal.
The candidate appointed to City Council Position No. 4 will be sworn in at the regular City Council meeting on February 3, 2026.
Per the Richland City Charter, the individual appointed will serve until the candidate elected in the November 3, 2026, General Election takes office.
Additional details, including meeting agendas and times, will be posted on the City’s website at www.richlandwa.gov/agendas.
For more information, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at 509-942-7389.
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 01/16/26 4:50 PM
MEDFORD, Ore.—An Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for attempting to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine purchased from the dark web.
Dominick Jeffrey Aragon, 32, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, in February 2025, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) task force intercepted a parcel addressed to Aragon’s residence containing approximately one ounce of cocaine. In March 2025, they intercepted a second parcel destined for Aragon at the same address that contained two ounces of cocaine.
The investigation continued into April 2025, when USPIS and RADE seized two additional parcels addressed to Aragon at an acquaintance’s residence that contained controlled substances.
At the time of these offenses, Aragon was on federal supervised release after completing a 15-month federal prison sentence for distributing cocaine.
On September 29, 2025, Aragon pleaded guilty to attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine.
This case was investigated by USPIS and RADE. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Olivia Mendez, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
RADE is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. RADE includes members from Oregon State Police, the Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Probation & Parole, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.
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USAOR.PublicAffairs@usdoj.gov
Oregon Health Authority - 01/16/26 4:42 PM
January 16, 2026
Media contact: Larry Bingham, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov
OHA, Clackamas County confirm new measles case
Health officials encourage immunizations for measles
PORTLAND, Ore.—A new measles case has been identified in Clackamas County, and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) encourages people to make sure they are protected against measles.
The affected individual is unvaccinated. OHA and Clackamas County health officials have not yet determined whether the person has traveled outside of Oregon, or if the case is linked to other known cases including the two previously reported cases — both unvaccinated and with no known travel outside Oregon — previously confirmed by OHA and Linn County on Jan. 10.
State and local officials are working to identify others who may have been exposed to help ensure they are adequately protected against measles. There are currently no known public exposure locations associated with the case. OHA is not identifying the person’s gender, age, or other personal details. The agency will provide further updates on our measles webpage on a weekly basis.
“Measles is more than a rash and fever,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division. “I worry people aren’t aware that measles can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of severe disease from other infections. Being vaccinated against measles is the best way to protect yourself and your family from getting sick with measles. Everyone should talk with their health care providers to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations.”
Facts about measles
Measles spreads easily through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears until four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.
Measles symptoms typically begin with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.
Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to two out of every 1,000 measles cases have been fatal.
The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.
What to do if you suspect measles in your household
Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:
- Have a measles-like rash, or
- Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, and have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).
Individuals planning to seek medical care should call before they arrive. This allows providers to create a plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.
Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.
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U.S. Attorney's Office - Eastern Dist. of Wash. - 01/16/26 4:40 PM
Maryland Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Directing 11 Year Child to Engage in Sexually Explicit Acts Over FaceTime
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 01/16/26 4:32 PM
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican national unlawfully residing in the United States was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for felon in possession of a firearm after absconding from supervision for sixteen months.
Alfredo Terrero-Ortega, 28, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on January 31, 2023, Terrero-Ortega was released from the Oregon Department of Corrections to post-prison supervision in the community. In June 2023, within five months of his release, Terrero-Ortega threatened to kill a woman and shoved her to the ground while she was holding her baby. He also strangled her. She reported the incident, and he absconded from his post-prison state supervision. On November 7, 2024, the U.S. Marshals found and arrested Terrero-Ortega in Portland. When arrested, Terrero-Ortega, had a black satchel containing a loaded 9mm pistol, methamphetamine, zip lock baggies, a phone, handwritten credit card information, and documents linked to Terrero-Ortega’s girlfriend.
On December 17, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a single-count indictment charging Terrero-Ortega with felon in possession of a firearm.
On October 2, 2025, Terrero-Ortega pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
The U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah K. Bolstad prosecuted the case.
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USAOR.PublicAffairs@usdoj.gov
Oregon Dept. of Geology and Mineral Industries - 01/16/26 1:49 PM
Portland, OR – DOGAMI and other state permitting agencies have issued draft permits for the Grassy Mountain gold mine project and will hold a public hearing for the draft permits on January 29, 2026, from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm PST (5:00 pm – 7:00 pm MST) at the Vale Senior Citizens Center, 100 Longfellow St S, Vale, OR 97918. People can make comments in person at the hearing or submit written comments prior to February 6, 2026, as previously outlined in the draft permit public notice.
The public notice, meeting agenda, and related documents are available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/mlrr/Pages/Calico-GrassyMtn_projectDocuments.aspx
For further information, contact the DOGAMI Albany office at (541) 967-2083 or email: mation.grassymtn@dogami.oregon.gov">information.grassymtn@dogami.oregon.gov.
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phone: (541) 967-2083
email: dogami-info@dogami.oregon.gov
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 01/16/26 9:47 AM
BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING
MEETING SCHEDULED
Notice of Regular Meeting
The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.
To view the Board's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.
Amended Agenda Items:
1. Introductions
2. Meeting Minutes
Approve the October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes
3. Fire Policy Committee
a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Chris Heppel, Chair
b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
A. Christopher Wade, DPSST No. 30403; Christmas Valley RFPD – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on November 19, 2025.
4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees
a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair
b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair
c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Jennifer Cameron, Vice-Chair
d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
A. Shane Bond, DPSST No. 59946; DOC/Union County Sheriff's Office – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on December 16, 2025.
B. John Deardorff, DPSST No. 42771; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.
C. Mark Farmer, DPSST No. 55203; Multnomah County Sheriff's Office – No Action
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.
D. Emily Fisk, DPSST No. 61817; DOC/Deer Ridge Correctional Institution – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.
E. Jesus Gutierrez, Sr., DPSST No. 61908; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.
F. Michelle Hubbard, DPSST No. 31820; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.
G. Erica Hurley, DPSST No. 29900; Portland Police Bureau – No Action
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.
H. Bonnie Kessell, DPSST No. 46671; Umatilla County Community Corrections – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.
I. August Lowthian, DPSST No. 61677; Washington County Sheriff's Office – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.
J. Jonathan McNichols, DPSST No. 60995; Salem Police Department – Revoke
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.
K. James McQueen, DPSST No. 55471; Hillsboro Police Department – Revoke
Seven (7) to two (2) vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.
L. Kathleen Williams, DPSST No. 43028; Bureau of Emergency Communications – No Action
Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on August 12, 2025.
M. Committee Appointments
Police Policy Committee
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- Anel Ceric – Non-Management Law Enforcement. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
- Michelle Duncan – Oregon State Sheriffs' Association. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
- Warren Hensman – Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police. Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective January 22, 2026.
5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee
a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair
b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote).
A. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0120, 259-060-0135, 259-060-0136, 259-060-0300, 259-060-0310, 259-060-0320, and 259-060-0380
Related to Emergency Suspension
6. DPSST Recommendations (The following items to be ratified by one vote each)
a. Advisory Discussion of Upcoming Changes to the Basic Police Program
b. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Registration to Regional Training Courses
c. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Use of DPSST Facilities
d. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0001
Recommended Repeal
e. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-030-0005
Relating to the Authority of the Director of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
f. Workgroup/Rules Advisory Committee Request
Related to Law Enforcement Officer Certification Maintenance Requirements Per OAR 259-008-0065
g. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527
h. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527/Senate Bill 300
7. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle
8. Next Meeting Date: April 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.
Administrative Announcement
This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Board members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.
Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
Phone: 503-551-3167
E-Mail: juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 01/15/26 4:13 PM
PORTLAND, Ore.— A man from Delhi, India, was sentenced to federal prison today for conspiring with others to export controlled aviation components and a navigation and flight control system to end users in Russia, in violation of the Export Control Reform Act.
Sanjay Kaushik, 58, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison and 36 months of supervised release.
“This was no lapse in judgment. It was a calculated, profit-driven scheme involving repeated transactions, substantial gains, and coordination with foreign co-conspirators, including sanctioned Russian entities,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “This defendant sought, on multiple occasions, to undermine safeguards critical to U.S. national security and foreign policy for his own personal gain.”
According to court documents and following today’s sentencing, beginning in early September 2023, Kaushik conspired with others to unlawfully obtain aerospace goods and technology from the United States for entities in Russia. The goods were purchased under the false pretense that they would be supplied to Kaushik and his Indian company, when in fact they were destined for Russian end users.
In one such instance, Kaushik and his co-conspirators purchased an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS), which is a device that provides navigation and flight control data for aircraft, from an Oregon-based supplier. Components such as the AHRS require a license from the Department of Commerce to be exported to certain countries, including Russia. To obtain an export license for the AHRS, Kaushik and his co-conspirators falsely claimed that Kaushik’s Indian company was the end purchaser and that the component would be used in a civilian helicopter. Kaushik and his co-conspirators obtained the AHRS – which was ultimately detained before it was exported from the United States – on behalf of and with the intention of shipping it, through India, to a customer in Russia.
Kaushik was arrested in Miami, Florida, on October 17, 2024, pursuant to a criminal complaint and arrest warrant and has remained in custody since then.
On November 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging Kaushik with conspiring and attempting to export products in violation of the Export Control Reform Act and the Export Administration Regulations, specifically attempting to illegally export a navigation and flight control system from Oregon to Russia through India, and false statements in connection with an export.
On October 9, 2025, Kaushik pled guilty to count one of the indictment, conspiring to sell export-controlled aviation components with dual civilian and military applications to end users in Russia.
The sentencing was announced by Scott E. Bradford, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the National Security Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and Special Agent in Charge Brent Burmester of the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), San Jose Field Office.
BIS Portland investigated the case, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Gregory R. Nyhus, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and Trial Attorney Emma Ellenrieder of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.
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USAOR.PublicAffairs@usdoj.gov
WSU Tri-Cities - 01/15/26 3:38 PM
RICHLAND, Wash. — Washington State University Tri-Cities is positioned to play a central role in the state’s most ambitious effort to advance sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), following the launch of the Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator (CSAA).
Unveiled Jan. 8 at the Boeing Future of Flight in Everett, the accelerator will bring together state leadership, private-sector partners, research institutions, Tribal representatives, labor and community stakeholders to rapidly scale the production and adoption of low-carbon aviation fuels. Funded through a 2025 legislative appropriation and additional philanthropic support, CSAA is the most comprehensive initiative of its kind in the Pacific Northwest.
Two WSU Tri-Cities faculty from the Bioproducts, Sciences, and Engineering Lab — BSEL Director Josh Heyne and Research Assistant Professor Harrison Yang — were on-hand during the launch event to demonstrate and discuss their lab's SAF testing programs with other guests. WSU system President Besty Cantwell was an invited speaker, and more than 210 government and industry leaders — including Washington Governor Bob Ferguson attended the event.
WSU Tri-Cities research driving real-world impact
WSU is a lead research partner in CSAA, leveraging more than a decade of national leadership in sustainable aviation. Much of that work is happening at WSU Tri-Cities, home to one of the most comprehensive SAF testing and evaluation facilities in the country: the Sustainable Options in Aviation Research (SOAR) Lab and BSEL.
“WSU Tri-Cities provides the applied research and testing capabilities that make this work real,” said WSU Tri-Cities Chancellor, Sandra Haynes. “From validating fuels to supporting certification and commercialization, our researchers are helping the industry bridge the gap between promising science and commercial scale.”
Directed by Heyne, BSEL operates in partnership with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and serves as WSU’s primary hub for SAF testing and characterization. Since 2024, the SOAR Lab within BSEL has supported emerging energy solutions by providing specialized testing methodologies and equipment to industry and academic partners.
To date, BSEL researchers have tested nearly 500 SAF candidate samples from roughly 40 institutions across North America, Europe, and Asia supporting supply-chain validation, performance evaluation and federal policy efforts. Heyne was recognized last year as the most cited and most published researcher in the field, as well as the most productive author in SAF research from 2001 to 2023. He also holds the highest connection strength among researchers in the discipline — illustrating the breadth of his collaborations — contributing to WSU’s designation as the most collaborative institution in sustainable aviation research.
“With aviation expected to grow globally, sustainable fuels offer one of the most viable pathways for decarbonization in the next several decades” Heyne said. “Our focus here is on enabling industry to meet performance, safety, and economic targets that make commercial deployment possible.”
As part of CSAA, WSU Tri-Cities is partnering with Snohomish County to establish a Sustainable Aviation Fuel Research and Development Center at Paine Field Airport. The center will house the world’s first SAF repository, where fuel samples will be collected, tested, indexed and distributed globally to support research and commercialization efforts. WSU Tri-Cities experts will play a key role in fuel testing, design of novel SAF compositions, while collaborating with government, industry and academic partners to foster innovation, workforce development and economic growth in the region.
WSU’s SAF research also contributes to ASCENT, the Federal Aviation Administration’s Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels and Environment, co-led by WSU and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Looking ahead
With aviation accounting for an estimated 2 to 3 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, leaders emphasized that SAF represents one of the most promising near-term strategies for reducing emissions while maintaining safety, affordability and reliability.
WSU Tri-Cities will continue to contribute its research expertise to ensure sustainable aviation fuels are developed responsibly and at scale.
U.S. Attorney's Office - District of Oregon - 01/15/26 2:34 PM
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Brush Prairie, Washington, woman pleaded guilty yesterday and was sentenced for mail theft while working as a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employee.
Darcy Rae Nolan, 57, pleaded guilty to the information charging theft of mail by an officer or employee. Nolan was sentenced to two years of probation. The court ordered Nolan to pay restitution.
According to court documents, from February 2024 through December 2024, Nolan, as a city carrier for the USPS Parkrose Station Post Office, stole medications from the mail on at least 15 occasions by manipulating USPS records regarding parcels or opening parcels and stealing the medications. A search of Nolan’s purse and vehicle recovered approximately 137 pills and capsules that were later identified as five different types of prescription amphetamines.
On November 10, 2025, Nolan was charged by information with theft of mail by a postal employee.
The USPS Office of Inspector General investigated the case. First Assistant United States Attorney William M. Narus and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Trisotto prosecuted the case.
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USAOR.PublicAffairs@usdoj.gov
Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 01/15/26 1:47 PM
GOVERNOR'S COMMISSION ON THE
LAW ENFORCEMENT MEDAL OF HONOR
MEETING SCHEDULED
Notice of Regular Meeting
The Governor's Commission on the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor will hold a teleconference meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Shelby Alexander at (503) 378-2191 or shelby.alexander@dpsst.oregon.gov.
Agenda Items:
1. Introductions
2. Minutes for August 19, 2024, Meeting
3. Michael Snyder, DPSST No. 60486; Reedsport Police Department - Nomination for Medal of Honor
Presented by Phil Castle
4. Next meeting - TBD
Administrative Announcement
This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be digitally recorded.
Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
Phone: 503-378-2191
E-Mail: shelby.alexander@dpsst.oregon.gov
State of Oregon - 01/15/26 11:10 AM
Salem, OR – The Oregon Housing Needs Analysis (OHNA) is part of Oregon’s statewide land use planning system that is intended to facilitate housing production, affordability and choice to meet housing needs for Oregonians statewide, outlined by House Bill 2001.
The Oregon Department of Administrative Services published the Office of Economic Analysis’ 2026 Production Targets and Adopted Methodology. The report presents both the final methodology and the initial statewide and regional results. The OHNA report will be updated and released annually by Dec. 31.
For more information on OHNA, visit the Office of Economic Analysis webpage.
DAS.MediaRelations@das.oregon.gov
Oregon Health Authority - 01/15/26 10:42 AM
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Ore. Dept. of Public Safety Standards and Training - 01/15/26 8:16 AM
TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE
MEETING SCHEDULED
Notice of Regular Meeting
The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov
The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.
Amended Agenda Items:
1. Introductions
2. Approve November 5, 2025, Meeting Minutes
3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)
Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho
a. Emma Todd; DPSST No. 65491
Basic Telecommunicator and Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certifications
b. Nicole Silbaugh; DPSST No. 52445
Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Telecommunicator, and Basic Emergency Medical Dispatcher Certifications
4. Mileena Edwards, DPSST No. 61544; Warm Springs Police Department
Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho
5. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0005, 259-008-0290, 259-008-0300, 259-008-0310, 259-008-0320, 259-008-0330, 259-008-0340, and 259-008-0400
Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes
Presented by Jennifer Howald
6. Agency Updates
7. Next Telecommunications Policy Committee Meeting: May 6, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.
Administrative Announcement
This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Telecommunications Policy Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.
Department of Public Safety Standards and Training
Phone: 503-551-3167
E-Mail: juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov