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# The Hillsboro Herald

## Sitemaps
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## Posts
- [High Lead Levels Confirmed Near Hillsboro Airport: What the Science Means for Local Residents](https://hillsboroherald.com/high-lead-levels-confirmed-near-hillsboro-airport-what-the-science-means-for-local-residents/): Please refer any questions you have to your Health professionals. The Oregon Health Authority and the City of Hillsboro are aware of this, and our City Council is pushing for leaded avgas to be phased out by 2030.
- [Hillsboro Tops Nation with 0.21% Data Center Vacancy Rate — As Local Moratorium Ticks Down and Worries Mount Over Schools](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-tops-nation-with-0-21-data-center-vacancy-rate-as-local-moratorium-ticks-down-and-worries-mount-over-schools/): If you’ve driven down Brookwood, Evergreen, or along Shute Road lately, you don’t need an industry white paper to tell you that Hillsboro’s landscape is transforming fast. Massive concrete Data Center server farms keep sprouting up behind industrial fences, humming away 24/7. Data Center rooftop cooling units in Hillsboro, Oregon, use a massive amount of power and water. Hillsboro Herald Photo Now, fresh national real estate numbers confirm what locals already feel on the ground: Hillsboro is running out of room, power, and bandwidth, yet the tech giants are clamoring to pack in every megawatt they can get. Hillsboro boasts a razor-thin 0.21% data center vacancy rate according to a commercial real estate report released by CBRE covering the first half of 2026. That makes our hometown the single tightest major data center market in the entire United States, edging out Northern Virginia’s notorious "Data Center Alley," which clocked in at 0.24%. For all practical purposes, Hillsboro is 100% full. The Numbers: 491 Megawatts and Nowhere Left to Go Data center capacity isn't measured in square footage anymore; it’s measured in sheer power draw: megawatts (MW). Hillsboro’s total data center inventory now sits at 491.4 MW, ranking us seventh among the nation's primary digital infrastructure hubs, right behind Silicon Valley’s 509.2 MW.  These numbers are derived from the CBRE Report. Market Total Inventory (H1 2026) Vacancy Rate Hillsboro, OR 491.4 MW 0.21% Northern Virginia 4,496.5 MW 0.24% Silicon Valley 509.2 MW Supply Constrained / Flat Pricing Primary Markets Average 10,903.0 MW 1.40% Nationwide, vacancy across primary markets sits at an all-time low of 1.4%, with over 80% of all capacity currently under construction already leased out before the concrete even dries. Right here in Hillsboro, another 170.3 MW is actively under construction, and CBRE reports that more than 90% of that upcoming buildout is already spoken for. Which Communities Are Using The Most Juice Per Resident? Reviewing the numbers in the report, the Herald took the populations of the markets and communities with the lowest vacancy rates and compared each stack's population to the amount of power being used.  Power is not created in a vacuum.  To push that much, communities have to tolerate a massive power grid of wires, substations, transformers, BESS arrays- you name it.  These communities live inside a power grid.  So, how did Hillsboro's per-person power impact shake out?   Well, Hillsboro residents using these numbers are the most impacted by a wide margin. Market Inventory (H1 2026) Population Basis Estimated Population MW per 1,000 Residents Hillsboro (Current Operating) 491.4 MW City of Hillsboro ~111,000 4.43 MW Hillsboro (Committed Pipeline) 921.4 MW City of Hillsboro ~111,000 8.30 MW Hillsboro (Countywide Current) 491.4 MW Washington County ~605,000 0.81 MW Hillsboro (Countywide Committed) 921.4 MW Washington County ~605,000 1.52 MW Northern Virginia (Region) 4,496.5 MW NoVA Metro Counties ~3,257,000 1.38 MW — Loudoun County, VA (Epicenter) ~3,200 MW (est. share) Loudoun County only ~450,000 ~7.11 MW Silicon Valley 509.2 MW Santa Clara County ~1,900,000 0.27 MW All 8 Primary US Markets 10,903.0 MW Combined Metro Areas ~58,000,000 ~0.19 MW The Moratorium and the Grandfathered Pipeline City Hall hit the pause button this summer. We are currently five weeks into a 120-day moratorium on new and expanded data center land-use applications, which officially runs through November 24, 2026 (with an option for Council to extend it for another 120 days).  The goal? Give city planners time to overhaul Hillsboro’s community development code before the town is swallowed whole by windowless grey boxes. Yet the pause has plenty of loopholes: Grandfathered Buildouts: Any project that filed land-use applications before July 27 may proceed. The PGE & GridCARE Pipeline: As revealed in joint disclosures by Portland General Electric and GridCARE, the utility used AI-driven grid modeling to unlock an immediate 80 MW of incremental data center capacity in Hillsboro for 2026, as part of a broader push to energize over 400 MW by 2029. According to reporting by Pete Danko at the Portland Business Journal, PGE currently carries 430 MW under contract across five data center clients. More on the Horizon: As the Business Journal also highlighted from PGE’s July 31 earnings call, CEO Maria Pope told Wall Street analysts that the utility has an astonishing 1.7 gigawatts (1,700 MW) in large-load requests queued up for 2028 and beyond. Pope candidly noted that most of the customers they’re working with are already tucked safely into the local permitting process, grandfathered in before the freeze. The Battery Catch-22: In an ironic twist, battery energy storage systems (BESS)—the very facilities needed to buffer peak-demand spikes on our local grid—were caught in the same moratorium net. Meanwhile, local pushback is no longer isolated to Hillsboro. Down the road, Salem City Council took a cue from Washington County and enacted its own data center land-use moratorium after a massive, controversial server farm sparked public outcry. Closer to Home: What About the Schools? While Wall Street cheers "pre-leasing rates" and "hyperscale demand," folks living here have to deal with the real-world fallout: traffic, zoning encroachments, water consumption, and substation hums. Hillsboro Data Center - This massive project is going within feet of Liberty High School in Hillsboro, Oregon A growing concern across our community is the proximity of newly proposed and existing facilities to local neighborhoods and schools. With upcoming data center footprints slated near area classrooms, findings presented at a Brown University Sustainable ED conference earlier this year offer serious food for thought. Researchers examining the intersection of climate, infrastructure, and classroom learning revealed that: Drops in Math Scores: Research led by Samantha Kane at Brown found a statistically significant drop in math scores among third graders attending schools located within one mile of data centers, compared to students in schools one to two miles away. Cumulative Setbacks: Schools surrounded by more than one data center saw even steeper performance declines. Diesel Emissions & Fine Particulates: While servers run on electricity, data center campuses routinely host sprawling banks of industrial diesel backup generators, which cycle regularly for testing and release fine particulate matter and asthma triggers. Low-Frequency Noise: Parallel research by UC San Diego researcher Josh Aarons showed that acoustic pollution—a constant, droning low-frequency hum similar to noise corridors—consistently harms student cognitive retention and testing performance. What’s Next for Hillsboro? CBRE’s national report highlights that across North America, "local opposition has become a serious obstacle, with community resistance and zoning delays stalling projects." Securing local approval, CBRE admits, is now just as hard for developers as securing power and fiber. Hillsboro finds itself at a defining crossroads. As the city works to rewrite its development codes ahead of November 24, residents will be watching closely to see if the new rules establish meaningful setbacks from schools and neighborhoods, protect our power grid, or simply clear the runway for the next gigawatt wave. The Hillsboro Planning Commission meets one week from tonight to pick up the new City Planning process of revamping our Community Development codes.  Many important aspects of the Phase 1 code rewrite are underway, and new code will follow.   Look for regular updates from the Herald on these matters. Sources for our story: https://hechingerreport.org/data-centers-air-pollution-climate-math-lessons-from-a-climate-and-education-conference/ https://www.cbre.com/insights/books/north-america-data-center-trends-h1-2026 https://www.gridcare.ai/post/pge-and-gridcare-accelerate-hundreds-of-megawatts https://www.bizjournals.com/portland/news/2026/09/01/hillsboro-data-center-vacancy-rate-lowest-us-cbre.html
- [Hillsboro Art Walk Celebrates 20 Years Tonight And You Are All Invited](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-art-walk-celebrates-20-years-tonight-and-you-are-all-invited/): Tonight is a very special night.  Hillsboro Art Walk, one of the earliest examples of modern cultural art in Hillsboro, is turning 20.  We have always had events and gatherings in Hillsboro; 60 years here in our community have taught me that. From big bands at Shute Park's historic pavilion to Western Days on Main Street in the 60s and 70s, the people of Hillsboro have shown they know how to have a good time.  Having said that, the fine arts came onto the scene in the last two decades, starting with small venues displaying canvases, pottery, glasswork, and more from our fine local artisans in our historic downtown.  The Hillsboro Art Walk, founded by Linda Holland and others, brought all of that to Hillsboro's "Living Room" to support our downtown merchants, the arts, and music.  Like a fine cask of Tualatin Valley Pinot Noir, the event has been a beacon for our finest artists, and as we face the future, it calls on us all to come out and celebrate.  Tonight is a special one, and the 411 from the City of Hillsboro and the organization is listed below.
- [Puppets, Artist Talks & Opportunities, Classes & More at Hillsboro’s Walters Cultural Arts Center](https://hillsboroherald.com/puppets-artist-talks-opportunities-classes-more-at-hillsboros-walters-cultural-arts-center/): The Walters Cultural Arts Center is one of the great gems and resources in Washington County, serving our residents in so many ways.  Below you will find a copy of the information just released for this Fall and what they have coming up, from classes to art shows to music, the Walters has it all.
- [Hillsboro Planning Commission Sends Data Center Code Back for More Work After Marathon Hearing](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-planning-commission-sends-data-center-code-back-for-more-work-after-marathon-hearing/): Four hours and 36 minutes after gaveling in, the Hillsboro Planning Commission adjourned its Aug. 26 hearing on the city's first-ever data center zoning code without a vote and without, by several commissioners' own account, a clear enough answer to some basic questions about what the rules would actually allow.  A smaller group of residents came to speak about what they disliked about this proposal.  The meeting agenda and informational packet were updated by the staff just before the meeting, which started the process off on a bad note. But those people were heard by the Commissioners, and their voices were influential in changing the outcome of the evening.
- [Hillsboro Data Center Fight Moves To Planning Commission Wednesday Night: Why You Need to Show Up](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-data-center-fight-moves-to-planning-commission-wednesday-night-why-you-need-to-show-up/): This Wednesday, August 26, at 6:00 PM, the Hillsboro Planning Commission is holding a formal public hearing on Draft Order No. 8502 (Case File CDCA-004-26). If you dig into the staff report and proposed code amendments, what’s being served up as "reform" is looking a bit like a sleight of hand that locks in massive corporate growth while kicking real community protections down the road.
- [Commissioner Nafisa Fai Calls for Temporary Pause on New Data Center Development In Washington County](https://hillsboroherald.com/commissioner-nafisa-fai-calls-for-temporary-pause-on-new-data-center-development-in-washington-county/): Breaking News: Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai, who is a candidate for the Commission Chair Race, is proposing a Data Center Moratorium for Washington County.  The Press release on this important matter is posted below.
- [Catch The Summer Market At Roloff Farm This Weekend Just Minutes From Town](https://hillsboroherald.com/catch-the-summer-market-at-roloff-farm-this-weekend-just-minutes-from-town/): This weekend, Isabel Sofia Roloff and her husband Jacob will be hosting a Summer Market!  This low-key market is the couple's first Summer event and will be a smaller format.  That will make it an extra fun time for those looking for a more intimate, low-pressure event.  Tarot readings?  Music?  Animals to pet?  And shaved ice?  Oh yes, this sounds too fun.  And kids will have a ball for sure!
- [Finally, Real Jobs: Genentech Doubles Down on Hillsboro While Data Centers Threaten to Eat Our Future](https://hillsboroherald.com/finally-real-jobs-genentech-doubles-down-on-hillsboro-while-data-centers-threaten-to-eat-our-future/): "We are proud to make this significant new investment in Hillsboro, building on nearly two decades of Genentech manufacturing in Oregon. Thanks to its skilled workforce and strong community, Hillsboro remains vital to our U.S. operations."
- [City Of Hillsboro Posts Community Survey On Data Centers & BESS, But Are The Questions Missing Information?](https://hillsboroherald.com/city-of-hillsboro-posts-community-survey-on-data-centers-bess-but-are-the-questions-missing-information/): This afternoon, the City of Hillsboro messaged out about its work on new rules that will impact data centers and BESS battery storage systems.  And the City wants you to take a survey! Most residents who have been following the proliferation of Data Centers in our community know that Hillsboro recently passed a 120-day moratorium that blocks new applications during this time.  And while that pause is in place, the real work is happening to evaluate how we define, locate, regulate, and allow more of them in our community.
- [Showdown at Hillsboro City Hall: Sky Harbour Jet Hub Faces Crucial Appeal Hearing Tuesday](https://hillsboroherald.com/showdown-at-hillsboro-city-hall-sky-harbour-jet-hub-faces-crucial-appeal-hearing-tuesday/): Hours before tonight’s City Council appeal hearing on the controversial Sky Harbor jet development, opponents escalated the fight by submitting explosive allegations of potential federal fraud to city officials. In a formal supplemental filing, appellants Sarah Richmond, Brett Hamilton, and Valerie Pratt accuse Sky Harbour and the Port of Portland of submitting "blatantly and obviously false" statements on their FAA Categorical Exclusion (CATEX) environmental checklist. The disputed document, which appellants argue was withheld from the public until after the Planning Commission’s initial approval, claimed the project would neither increase aircraft operations, alter the airport's fleet mix, nor generate significant traffic because it merely "relocates existing services at HIO".
- [Next Wave: 7 Hillsboro Data Center Projects March Ahead As Humans Fight It Out](https://hillsboroherald.com/next-wave-7-hillsboro-data-center-projects-march-ahead-as-humans-fight-it-out/): Despite what we humans want, machines and corporations are moving ahead undaunted, and Hillsboro, Oregon is seeing a continuous wave of Data Center projects.  Will they be home to AI Computing? Or more Data Storage Co-Location sites that want to be on the Fiber River running through Hillsboro on its way to the Pacific Rim?  You know what, maybe it doesn't matter.  Until we, as residents, take definitive action, the march of metal, money, influence, and power will not end.  Well, it will end when the last Oak tree and yard of topsoil along the eastern edge of Jackson School Road is gone — but that will just be a pause until the march begins again to the West when the people in power get what they want.
- [MISSING TEEN ALERT: Help Find Keyana Allison Of Hillsboro, Oregon Who Is Missing And At Risk](https://hillsboroherald.com/help-find-keyana-allison-hillsboro-oregon-missing-alert/): Hillsboro, Oregon teenager Keyana Allison is missing and believed to be at risk and in danger, according to her father, Dirk Allison, who the Hillsboro Herald interviewed by phone today.  The teen is suffering from depression and mental health issues and left a note that she was thinking of self-harm.  She just disappeared from the family's home at the Hampshire Downs Apartments at 5:30 PM on Friday, August 7th, 2026.  Mr Allison pleads with the community, both near and far, to post his daughter's photos and information and to look out for her to help bring her back home.
- [The Power Pulpit vs. The Silent Streets: Hillsboro Leadership’s Double Standard on Political Violence](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-power-pulpit-vs-the-silent-streets-hillsboro-leaderships-double-standard-on-political-violence/): However, the rapid deployment of official authority by Mayor Beach Pace and four members of the Hillsboro City Council—co-signing a public declaration condemning "political violence" before judicial due process has even begun — stands in stark contrast to the Council majority’s notable silence during recent acts of physical violence, institutional misconduct, and tragedy affecting ordinary Hillsboro residents.
- [Hillsboro Schools Foundation Hosts Making Strides For Education 5K](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-schools-foundation-making-strides-for-education-5k/): The Hillsboro Schools Foundation has asked us to share the word about an upcoming fundraiser you can all get involved in, and the proceeds will support our local schools!   You can sponsor, walk, run, or volunteer to help out at the Making Strides for Education 5K in Orenco this October!  Check out all the information right here. Hillsboro School Foundation - Making Strides for Education 5K Hillsboro Schools Foundation Making Strides for Education 5K Date: October 3, 2026 Time: 10am (Check-in and day-of registration begin shortly after 9am) Location: 943 NE Orenco Station Loop, Hillsboro, OR 97124      Hillsboro Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that supports students who attend Hillsboro-area schools. The Making Strides for Education 5K will raise funds to provide students with extracurricular activities they may not otherwise have access to.  This is a flat, fast course entirely on sidewalks, with no major street crossings where participants would have to stop for a light (there are two MAX crossings where participants may need to pause briefly). Not a runner or walker?   We also have lots of volunteer opportunities! Learn more at https://hsfonline.ejoinme.org/2026_HSF_5K
- [Hillsboro’s Latest Data Center Now In Permitting Is Across From Liberty High And Near Rock Creek Homes](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboros-latest-data-center-now-in-permitting-is-across-from-liberty-high-and-near-rock-creek-homes/): One of the next big data centers in Hillsboro, Oregon, is likely to be the Digital Realty Trust, LP project on NE Wagon Way.  The Dallas (TX) based company that already has large Data Centers in Hillsboro has applied for a massive two-story data center facility directly across from Hillsboro's largest and newest High School, Liberty High School. And "directly across" means within 200 feet, according to site plans submitted to the City of Hillsboro last week.  According to data center mapping and recent Brown University research tracking school proximity, this project represents a precedent-setting threat in Oregon—placing a massive industrial compute facility directly across the street from a high school campus.
- [Democratic Leaders Call For 3 Year Moratorium On Data Centers](https://hillsboroherald.com/democratic-leaders-call-for-3-year-moratorium-on-data-centers/): PRESS RELEASE:  Democratic Legislators and Candidates Call for 3-Year Moratorium on Data Centers
- [North Plains Residents Are Being Flooded With Messaging As One Resident Seeking The Truth Sounds Off](https://hillsboroherald.com/north-plains-residents-are-being-flooded-with-messaging-as-one-resident-seeking-the-truth-sounds-off/): The Real Story - A Column  Careful — Opinions and Statements of Research-based facts offered from the perspective of a long-time local Editor's Note - This is an Op-Ed guest submission submitted by a resident of the City of North Plains, Oregon.  He lives inside the City, and like all residents, is caught up in a situation where the City as an organization is in upheaval, both inside the City organizationally and in the Council and leadership.  The main topics are mismanagement dating back for years, and urban growth expansions of the City boundary.  Data Centers have been a regular discussion for expansions onto the farmland adjacent to the City boundary.  A group or entity calling itself The Real Friends of North Plains has taken to social media and other methods to influence public opinion, placing blame on specific leaders, while sowing the seeds of distrust.  That said, whoever it is will not verify who they are or who they represent, at least not as of yet. There are massive land holdings on the edge of North Plains, many parcels owned by non-residents and out-of-state interests.  These parcels have been the subject of growth expansion initiatives until recently, when the new Council and leadership pushed back, and the citizens voted against growth in 2024 in a 70% majority.    Land being added to a City boundary can be worth tens of millions or more, so this is a big-money game and has been for some time.  One can imagine the lengths someone may go to for this lottery-like payday.  The Herald has reached out to these Real Friends who have limited contact info, no membership list, or admins who show who they are.  It is almost as if someone from outside North Plains is running a slick campaign to alter public opinion - let's hope someone responds and clears this up!  It appears once again that the good people of North Plains are being manipulated by outsiders who are using a local label to gain traction and create distrust.  We will continue to follow this story as more news comes out.  Here is a submission by Andreeas Trattner.  We do not know him, nor are we affiliated in any way.  His voice is one of many. By Andreeas Trattner, North Plains Resident Disclosure: I serve on the steering committee of Strong Towns North Plains. The views here are my own. North Plains has had a hard eighteen months. Anyone who has sat through a council meeting lately knows it. But I don't think what we're watching is a city falling apart. I think it's a city working through the consequences of a long-deferred argument about how it should grow — and that argument is finally being settled the way it should be, in public. For decades, the pressure on North Plains has run in one direction: expand the urban growth boundary, and expand it well beyond what our housing needs require, to accommodate land- intensive uses like data centers. That pressure has repeatedly met resistance at the ballot box and in the courts. Residents have been consistent about this. The lobbying has been consistent too. In 2024, voters elected a council majority that ran explicitly on smart growth, financial accountability, and public engagement. What happened next is a matter of public record, and it's worth laying out plainly. After the November 2024 election but before the new councilors were seated, the outgoing council hired Bill Reid — then the city's Finance Director — as City Manager. Over the following period, Reid also served as Acting Finance Director and Acting Planning Director. During his tenure, the city's annual financial audits went uncompleted for four consecutive fiscal years, 2022 through 2025, while the city continued to spend on urban growth boundary planning. I'm not going to speculate about anyone's motives. I don't need to. Four years without a completed audit is a failure of basic stewardship on its own terms, and concentrating the city manager, finance director, and planning director roles in one person left North Plains with no independent check on any of them and no continuity plan if that person left. North Plains uses a weak-mayor, strong-manager model, which already makes the city manager's office unusually consequential. In its final month, the outgoing council made it more so. Until December 2024, the council's meeting rules were part of the municipal code, and changing them meant amending an ordinance. That December, the outgoing council moved the rules into a resolution — far easier to alter — and repealed the code sections they replaced. Under the new rules, the City Manager prepares the agenda, a councilor cannot put a research question to the City Attorney without the full council's consent, and the rules themselves are to be amended "at the direction of the City Manager." Two weeks later, that council was gone. The effect was to shift authority toward an unelected office and make the limits on it easier to change, decided by a council on its way out the door. Those rules are still in force. The turnover since then has been real, and it has been painful. Councilors on both sides of the growth question have resigned, in some cases for serious personal reasons that had nothing to do with city politics. Blaming the new councilors for that turnover isn't supported by anything I've seen, and it isn't fair to the people who left. In June 2026, the council voted to part ways with Reid. I think that took resolve, and I think it was correct. The fight over North Plains' direction didn't end at the ballot box, or with Reid's departure. It moved to the mailbox. Residents have received a run of glossy mailings from a group calling itself "The Real Friends of North Plains," criticizing the sitting council and the people who elected it. I have one request of them: tell us who you are and who is paying for this. That's not an accusation — it's the standard we should hold everyone to, including my own organization, which is why the disclosure line at the top of this piece is there. If you believe what you're saying, sign your name to it. I'm signing mine. Concept Plan Map - North Plains UGB Growth Planning Document - See the Planning work here - City of North Plains Website - https://www.northplains.gov/government/departments/planning/urban_growth_boundary_expansion/index.php#outer-142 That standard applies to City Hall too. On July 29, the city's official communications channel published a statement about Mayor Aaron Dumbrow's resignation. Alongside necessary information about service impacts, it named the political committee that funded his 2024 campaign slate, set the slate's nickname off in quotation marks, tallied which sitting councilors were elected versus appointed, and passed along his charge that the council had committed "numerous legal and council rule violations." Then KOIN asked the city which violations. The city's spokesperson said she didn't know. Read that again. The City of North Plains put its name on an accusation against its own elected council, and could not say what the accusation was. The media contact on it isn't a city employee, but an outside public relations consultant the city pays. I don't know who wrote that language or approved it. Neither, it appears, does the city. Someone should ask. A string of departures often follows the exit of an executive who had consolidated as much authority as Reid did. That's uncomfortable, but it isn't necessarily a bad sign. Rebuilding takes longer than breaking, and it looks worse while it's happening. So here's what I'd ask of my neighbors. Come to a council meeting. Read Resolution 2285 and Ordinance 497 and the city charter — they're short, and they explain more about why things happen the way they do than any mailer will. Watch whether the audits get completed. Ask hard questions of every councilor, including the ones you agree with. Democracy is supposed to be messy. What it isn't supposed to be is quiet.
- [Silicon, Subsidies, and Superintelligence: Is Hillsboro Building the Engine of Our Own Replacement?](https://hillsboroherald.com/silicon-subsidies-and-superintelligence-is-hillsboro-building-the-engine-of-our-own-replacement/): He coined this phrase, 'the country of geniuses in the data center,' to describe what they're trying to build.
- [North Plains Special Meeting At Noon As City Struggles With More Issues](https://hillsboroherald.com/north-plains-special-meeting-at-noon-as-city-struggles-with-more-issues/): Today, 7-31-2026, at noon, the City of North Plains is holding a Special Meeting to hire an interim City Manager.  This meeting comes after the new City Manager, Gary Marks, walked away after 8 days on the job, claiming the City was highly dysfunctional and suffered from high turnover at the City Council.  Marks was taking over for controversial City Manager Bill Reid, and North Plains failed to provide required Audits to the State of Oregon over the past few years, mainly under the leadership of former Mayor Teri Lenahan, and drove the City towards a plan for massive urban growth, which divided residents.  Those efforts led to public backlash, and a new Mayor and new leadership came into power, but things have been a mess internally ever since. It is easy to imagine what Marks might have seen or read once he sat down in that City Manager's chair.  Claims of all sorts of issues have bubbled up for years; a City Manager would become liable for the acts of previous leaders if they failed to act.  Perhaps the job was just too risky for Marks?
- [Salem, You’re Doing This Right. Don’t Stop Now. Get A Data Center Moratroum Moving Fast!](https://hillsboroherald.com/salem-youre-doing-this-right-dont-stop-now-get-a-data-center-moratroum-moving-fast/): Hillsboro Herald — The Real Story - Analysis/Opinion. July 30, 2026. Monday night, Salem's city council will meet again, this time to consider a moratorium on new data centers. We watched Hillsboro do the same thing three days ago. We know exactly what's coming next, and we wanted Salem to hear it from a city that's already living it. Here's the short version: welcome the moratorium, but don't mistake it for the finish line. And whatever you do, don't fight it the way Hillsboro did. Hillsboro City Council Passes Data Center Moratorium -7-27-26 Hillsboro Herald Photo Hillsboro's win came late — and it was smaller than it looked We're glad Hillsboro's council finally acted. But let's be honest about the timing: this moratorium arrived only after more than 30 data centers had already been welcomed into our industrial land, our power grid, and our water systems. Residents were raising alarms about this months ago; in fact, for myself and a few others, it has been 2 or 3 years of working on getting something done.  We have packed council meetings, given science-based testimony, and had students who showed up to say their futures were being paved over. Leaders had the chance to act then. They didn't. The moratorium that finally passed this week is a real, hard-fought step. It is also proof of how much easier it is to stop something before it starts than to slow it down after thirty-some buildings are already standing. That's the first lesson for Salem: you have what Hillsboro didn't. You're having this fight before the buildings go up, not after.  And while some leaders like Dr Tammy Carpenter, Myrna Munoz, and Hillsboro City Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair demanded an emergency meeting in April to pass a moratorium, that was rejected by our Mayor and her panel of City Councilors. Even done right, a quiet filing doesn't stop a determined industry https://hillsboroherald.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0743-Broadband-Low.mp4 Here's the second lesson, and it's the one that should worry Salem most this week. Hillsboro's moratorium was built the right way, legally — city officials quietly filed the required 45-day notice with the state weeks in advance, precisely so the data center industry wouldn't see the deadline coming and rush the door. It was smart. It was lawful. And it still wasn't enough. In the final days before the vote, seven or eight more data center applications slid in anyway.  (Editor's Update -7-30-26) Two applications were turned in during the Moratorium meeting and vote.  This is unbelievable. Hillsboro has not provided information on these new players. That's the honest lesson, not a cynical one: even a well-executed, quietly filed moratorium can't fully outrun an industry that's watching for exactly this kind of deadline. Salem should expect the same pressure. Verrus hasn't filed a land use application for its Mill Creek project yet — and whatever the company says about staying on its "usual timeline," Hillsboro's experience says the industry moves fast once a deadline becomes visible. Salem may not be the only site with an application quietly waiting in the wings. If Hillsboro's pattern holds, it likely isn't.  In February of this year, while producing a National piece with Dan Lieberman of More Perfect Union, we ran into a data center contractor out in the Hillsboro Data Center Alley.  We chatted with me about the massive buildings going up everywhere.  I asked him how many more were coming.   "Hillsboro is nearing the end.  All the land is optioned up, and now we are moving to Marion County to tie up some sites".  I paid attention, and I realized then that the Circus was starting to pack up some of the big show and moving on.  I should have said something then.  Therefore, and having watched what happened to my hometown of Hillsboro, I believe Salem will hear of a few more sites coming forward for permits. Which is exactly why Salem's approach is the better one Here's where we want to be honest about something else: Hillsboro's moratorium happened quietly, on purpose, with almost no public notice, specifically to keep the industry from reacting in time. It worked, mostly. But it also meant Hillsboro residents — the same people who'd been packing council chambers for months — found out about their own city's move at the same moment as everyone else, with no chance to weigh in before the vote. Salem Public Hearing 7-27-26 - Screenshot from Salem YouTube Channel Salem hasn't done it that way, and it shouldn't start now. What we've watched happen in Salem over the past two weeks is the harder, slower, better version of this fight. Hundreds of residents filled a library auditorium until it overflowed into the basement and out onto the sidewalk. People testified for six hours, past midnight, in front of the company that wanted to build there. An economist stood up and said, on the record, that this is one of the worst development proposals he's seen by any standard measure. A city councilor apologized for a non-disclosure agreement she called a violation of public trust. None of that happened in secret, and none of it needed to. That's not a weaker fight than Hillsboro's. It's a stronger one. A quiet, well-timed filing can win a single moratorium vote. An engaged, informed, and organized public can win the years of fights that come after it — the code amendments, the community benefits negotiations, the next proposal, and the one after that. Hillsboro is still trying to build that kind of public muscle after the fact, in the 120 days it just bought itself. Salem is building it right now, in public, while the outcome is still genuinely undecided. So Salem- go Scorched Earth and stop them all.  Hillsboro is cheering for you all, praying for you, and we know what you have at stake because we lost it. What we're watching for So here's our honest advice, from a newsroom that's spent two decades of hindsight learning it the hard way: don't relax because a moratorium is on the table Monday. Watch the city's application portal as the next 7 to 10 days play out — if Hillsboro's pattern repeats, this is exactly the window where filings show up. Ask your council, directly, whether Monday's vote will take effect immediately or whether it's the start of a longer legal process. We know that they cannot vote to institute a moratorium on Monday, but they can vote to start the process with the Department of Land Conservation and Development, and that will get you an in-force moratorium in 46 days.    And keep showing up exactly the way you have been, because that pressure, public, loud, and impossible to route around — is the one thing a quiet filing can't buy back once it's spent. We have a lot more reporting to share about what's actually in this Verrus deal — the tax breaks already granted, the land ownership, the fine print of what Salem is and isn't getting in return. That story is coming. But this week, we just wanted Salem to know: you're doing this the right way. Keep going. HERE IS THE HILLSBORO MORATORIUM PASSED 7-28-26 - Use This As A Base For Your Own City's Moratorium Fully Signed Moratorium -Notice of Decision Data Center and BESS Facility Moratorium Hillsboro's 569 Pages of Reference Material sent to the DLCD Hillsboro Staff Report Hillsboro Map of Current Data Centers- Dirk Knudsen— The Hillsboro Herald
- [Kipperlyn Sinclair, Who Championed The Hillsboro Data Center Moratorium, Talks About The Road Ahead](https://hillsboroherald.com/kipperlyn-sinclair-who-championed-the-hillsboro-data-center-moratorium-talks-about-the-road-ahead/): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiC7ND4efWo
- [Pro-data center industry group behind ad campaign in Oregon, six other states](https://hillsboroherald.com/pro-data-center-industry-group-behind-ad-campaign-in-oregon-six-other-states/): Oregon Connects is one of several new nonprofits registered by the Data Center Coalition, an industry group backed by major tech companies
- [Hillsboro Passes Data Center Moratorium – Councilor Sinclair Champions Inclusion Of AI Computing & More](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-passes-data-center-moratorium-councilor-sinclair-champions-inclusion-of-ai-computing-more/): With 20 hours' notice this past Sunday and a 9 AM start time Monday morning, the Hillsboro City Council began a meeting to pass a Temporary Data Center and BESS Energy Storage System Moratorium.  As the caffeine began to take effect and the microphones came on, a crowd of about 50 residents came to attention to participate in this meeting. No one had any notice except the Herald, and we were tipped off mid-day yesterday.  The City of Hillsboro did not use its social media or engagement channels to notify people either.  After 6 months of passionate City Council meetings in which residents have demanded action, from screaming and swearing to passionate science-based testimonies, it was time for something to happen.
- [BREAKING NEWS – Hillsboro Announces Monday AM Meeting On Data Center Moratorium Resolution](https://hillsboroherald.com/breaking-news-hillsboro-announces-monday-am-meeting-on-data-center-moratorium-resolution/): BREAKING NEWS: Once again, the Hillsboro Herald is first to break a story, and this is a big one. At 9 a.m. Monday, the Hillsboro City Council will meet in special session to vote on Resolution 2932, a 120-day moratorium on new data center and battery energy storage system  (BESS) development. Council was notified of the meeting less than 24 hours before it convenes. The public got even less.   This is the moratorium meeting that Hillsboro Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair, Myrna Munoz (Oregon Senate Candidate), and Dr Tammy Carpenter (Oregon House of Reps Candidate) asked the City of Hillsboro for on May 1st, 2026, along with a petition in support that is nearing 5,000 signatures.  Mayor Beach Pace, Councilors Harris, Anvery, Case, and Salgado refused to call for a special meeting at that time.
- [Hillsboro & Washington County Make Headlines As Data Centers Abate School Revenues Like No Where Else](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-washington-county-make-headlines-as-data-centers-abate-school-revenues-like-no-where-else/): We can, however, tell you what the data centers specifically are responsible for. Washington County Assessment & Taxation records for 26 property accounts tied to twelve data center operators, including Adobe, CoreWeave, Digital Realty, Dropbox, Flexential, LinkedIn, NTT, NVIDIA, QTS, SI POR03A-C, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter),  show $5.07 billion in exempted assessed value and $83.2 million in abated taxes for the current tax year (25-26) alone.
- [Hillsboro’s Data Center Code Amendment Flunks the AI Test: Why Phase 1 Is an Exercise in Futility](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboros-data-center-code-amendment-flunks-the-ai-test-why-phase-1-is-an-exercise-in-futility/): These facilities do not “store” files, at least not the way we think a data center does. They often draw 50 kW to 150 kW per server rack, up to ten times the power density of legacy cloud storage, and require massive liquid chillers and localized battery storage systems.
- [CoreSite Proposes Massive Multi-Story Hillsboro Data Campus Opposite County Homes And Over Wetlands – A Showdown Is Brewing](https://hillsboroherald.com/coresite-proposes-massive-multi-story-hillsboro-data-campus-opposite-county-homes-and-over-wetlands-a-showdown-is-brewing/): Here is Councilor Dr Olivia Alcaire speaking about Transparency and Public Records - she is speaking to this issue. Thanks to this brave Councilor.
- [Hillsboro Homeboy: The Connell Street Prodigy Who Swung with Benny Goodman & Played With Ella](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-homeboy-the-connell-street-prodigy-who-swung-with-benny-goodman-played-with-ella/): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLbVvD6bOgc
- [Progressive Hillsboro City Council Candidates Invite Community To Event Tonight](https://hillsboroherald.com/progressive-hillsboro-city-council-candidates-invite-community-to-event-tonight/): Tonight at the Eagle's Nest Vineyard, you will have a chance to meet two excellent candidates for Hillsboro City Council.  Diana Jackson and Karim Delgado are running for two of the 6 seats this fall and will offer a powerful choice for those who are feeling unrepresented by current Hillsboro City Councilors.  This family-friendly event at one of the most beautiful spots in Washington County is a chance to meet, interact with, and learn about Diana and Karim as they launch their campaigns.  Both have posted all of their positions online.  None of those positions put corporations and big money first.  Each action they have taken in their personal lives and careers demonstrates that.  So many candidates make themselves into something in the few months before they campaign.  These two have made a difference in our community for a long time now, and you, as a resident, should give them serious consideration.
- [The Stacked Deck: How Oregon’s New ‘Prosperity’ Roadmaps Shield Corporate Failures, Bless the Hillsboro Data Center Land Grab, and Blame the Public](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-stacked-deck-how-oregons-new-prosperity-roadmaps-shield-corporate-failures-bless-the-hillsboro-data-center-land-grab-and-blame-the-public/): To: Governor Tina Kotek
- [The Hillsboro Gambit is Real: ASML and Intel Confirm Our Secret Weapon is Shipping from Ronler Acres](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-hillsboro-gambit-is-real-asml-and-intel-confirm-our-secret-weapon-is-shipping-from-ronler-acres/): A year ago, when Intel’s stock was beaten down to a gut-wrenching $20 per share, the mainstream tech media had written the company's obituary. And Hillsboro (OR )'s tech future was about to be buried with it.  Wall Street analysts claimed legacy chipmaker Intel was too slow, too debt-ridden, and too far behind competitors like TSMC and Nvidia to ever catch up.
- [Hillsboro Real Estate Update: Mid-Summer Market Finds Its Balance With Values Steady, Not Climbing](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-real-estate-update-mid-summer-market-finds-its-balance-with-values-steady-not-climbing/): The mid-summer 2026 Hillsboro, Oregon real estate market is delivering some fascinating numbers. Locally here in Hillsboro, we are seeing a clear divergence between the broader headlines and what is happening on our neighborhood streets.  For 43 years, I have been a real estate professional here in Hillsboro, which is enough to say I have honed my craft through many market cycles. Not many brokers remember the market of the early 1980s or have been through 3 or 4 boom-and-bust cycles.  So when I look at the housing and real estate market, I bring some deep understanding and analysis to the table.
- [Hillsboro City Council Showcased A City In Trouble As Public Outcry Rises, Transparency & Public Information Sheilded By Huge Fees](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-city-council-showcased-a-city-in-trouble-as-public-outcry-rises-transparency-public-information-sheilded-by-huge-fees-3/): The 7-7-26 Hillsboro City Council meeting was something to behold.  For the 1st time in 6 weeks, Mayor Beach Pace returned to the dais.  The meeting was filled with action items and emotions and included one audience member being tossed out at the start.  Another was threatened to be tossed out by the Mayor before it was clarified she only received 2 warnings.  Emotions were once again running high, and the meeting was full of important matters.  We have captured snippets of the crucial details in the video below and have completed an analysis as well.  Have a look, folks; this is wild stuff.
- [Hillsboro Pharmacy Returns With Tradition Intact, New Food, And The Heart of Hillsboro](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-pharmacy-returns-with-tradition-intact-new-food-and-the-heart-of-hillsboro/): This week, the heart of downtown Hillsboro beat a little stronger. The Hillsboro Pharmacy came back.
- [Ralph Puncochar’s Historic Collection Of Tractors, Cars, and Equipment To Be Sold This Saturday](https://hillsboroherald.com/ralph-puncochars-historic-collection-of-tractors-cars-and-equipment-to-be-sold-this-saturday/):  5888 SW River Rd., Hillsboro, Oregon 97123
- [The PGE Rate Hike On Data Centers Is Framed As A Victory, But It is Much Ado About Not Enough](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-pge-rate-hike-on-data-centers-is-framed-as-a-victory-but-it-is-much-ado-about-not-enough/): If you only read the headlines this week, you'd think Oregon just won a war against Portland General Electric (PGE) and Data Centers. "Oregon approves PGE's 29.7% rate hike for data centers under landmark law," reported OPB. "Regulators approve PGE's 29% rate increase for Oregon data centers," said KPTV. Oregon CUB called it a "big win for Oregon households." Climate Solutions' Nora Apter went further, calling it a "historic, precedent-setting win" for the state. Governor Kotek has been touting it on the campaign trail as proof her administration is finally making the state's biggest power users pay their fair share.
- [Battle For Hillsboro Skies Heads To City Council As Jets VS Residents Brings Forth Resident Appeals](https://hillsboroherald.com/battle-for-hillsboro-skies-heads-to-city-council-as-jets-vs-residents-brings-forth-resident-appeals/): The skies over Hillsboro, Oregon, are up for sale, and 7 massive new hangars at the Hillsboro Airport are about to become home for 30-40 private jets that are buying their way into our airspace, lives, and community.  This Tuesday night, the Hillsboro City Council will take action on how to proceed with two land-use appeals brought by some of our bravest local residents. Read up and stand with them as these legal cases move forward!
- [The Real Cost of Growth: Hillsboro Proposes “Non-Stop” Utility Rate Hikes While Tech Giants Heavy-Load Our Systems](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-real-cost-of-growth-hillsboro-proposes-non-stop-utility-rate-hikes-while-tech-giants-heavy-load-our-systems/): If you are from Hillsboro, Oregon, you can set your clock by utility rates going up, and once again it is time to line up a sewer and water rate increase!  Are you ready for this again?  Because sewer and stormwater rates are going to go up again!  If you are tired of the never-ending treadmill of price increases on everything from groceries to housing, look out: the City of Hillsboro is about to step up the pressure on your monthly utility bill.
- [The Silicon Forest is Out of Juice: Inside Hillsboro’s Silent One-Gigawatt Battery Explosion and the Hidden Power Crisis](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-silicon-forest-is-out-of-juice-inside-hillsboros-silent-one-gigawatt-battery-explosion-and-the-hidden-power-crisis/): When rumors first started swirling that Hillsboro’s power grid was hitting a terminal bottleneck, the Hillsboro Herald dug in and asked questions. Officials pointed to spreadsheets and promised "steady growth." But the physical evidence on the ground told a completely different story: informants working in a local Data Cebter called to tell us the project was done but would sit dormant. Local landowners told us that major industrial land deals were collapsing in escrow or being extended because Portland General Electric (PGE) told them there wouldn't be sufficient power available for another three to four years to power the intended users, Data Centers.
- [Liberty High School Valedictorian Connor Navarro Gone In An Instant As Memorial And Fundraiser Grows](https://hillsboroherald.com/liberty-high-school-valedictorian-connor-navarro-gone-in-an-instant-as-memorial-and-fundraiser-grows/): "He should have had decades ahead of him," Nastassia Betcher wrote on GoFundMe. "Instead, everything he had worked so hard for was taken away in a single, preventable moment."
- [THE LAST RIDE OF JERRY LEE WILSON: Invention, Insurrection, and the Way a Man Dies Right](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-last-ride-of-jerry-lee-wilson-invention-insurrection-and-the-way-a-man-dies-right/): Marilyn later launched her own venture, the Sweet Oregon Grill, and raised their four children: Molly, Stuart, Brian, and Connie, who all remain in the Hillsboro/Portland area.
- [A Darkness Grows Within Hillsboro City Hall And The Salgado Saga Put It All On Display](https://hillsboroherald.com/a-darkness-grows-within-hillsboro-city-hall-and-the-salgado-saga-put-it-all-on-display/): The Real Story- A Column  ~ Today another HISTORICAL ACCOUNTING OF THE LEADERS AND ISSUES IN HILLSBORO, OREGON- 2026
- [Council Meeting Tonight On Zoom And City Hall? – Rebuilding Trust Starts Tonight After Salgado Incident](https://hillsboroherald.com/council-meeting-tonight-on-zoom-and-city-hall-rebuilding-trust-starts-tonight-after-salgado-incident/): MORE FROM THE CITY WEBSITE - https://www.hillsboro-oregon.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/149307/4816
- [Breaking News- A Legal Challenge Has Been Filed To Stop Hillsboro, Oregon Data Center Deals](https://hillsboroherald.com/breaking-news-a-legal-challenge-has-been-filed-to-stop-hillsboro-oregon-data-center-deals/): HILLSBORO, ORE. — In response to growing concerns and unanswered questions about the impacts of data center development, 1000 Friends of Oregon has partnered with local leaders, farmers, businesses, and other organizations to sue the City of Hillsboro. Plaintiffs are represented by Jesse Buss, Willamette Law Group, PC; Eve Goldman, 1000 Friends of Oregon; and Eric Wriston, Crag Law Center. The petitioners allege that the city, along with Washington County, improperly issued key approvals needed for property tax breaks associated with 17 data center applications.
- [Le’Stuff Antique Mall Celebrates 25 Years In Business ~ The Greatest Treasure Is The Owners](https://hillsboroherald.com/lestuff-antique-mall-celebrates-25-years-in-business-the-greatest-treasure-is-the-owners/): Today is the 25th Anniversary of Le'Stuff Antique Mall, a Downtown Hillsboro business.  While antique and collectible malls and stores are not uncommon, each has a personality and a backstory.    This store has anything and everything under the sun that one could dream of finding when looking for a vintage or antique item.  But the real treasures to be found here are Jeff and Sandie Nelson, their Son, Jared, his family, and the extended family of dealers who help make the store an amazing community asset.  The success they have springs up from their knowledge of the business and their love of people and our town.
- [Firestorm Over Hillsboro City Councilor Salgado To Grow – “I Will Not Be Resigning”](https://hillsboroherald.com/firestorm-over-hillsboro-city-councilor-salgado-to-grow-i-will-not-be-resigning/): By now, the flames that rose on Tuesday night over the Hillsboro City Hall should be smoldering after City Councilor Cristian Salgado caused chaos, which ended the meeting.  But it appears that the newest member of this Council, who was appointed (not elected), is about to pour gasoline on it and reignite the flames going into next Tuesday night's special meeting.  While the media is somehow making this about Data Centers, nothing could be further from the truth.  That is why I write The Real Story.
- [The Real Story: Data Centers Are Encroaching on Hillsboro’s Schools—and We Are Out of Time](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-real-story-data-centers-are-encroaching-on-hillsboros-schools-and-we-are-out-of-time/): Once again, breaking news on Data Centers in Hillsboro, Oregon.  And once again, the Herald is the source bringing the news not only to you, our readers, but to our City Councilors, who I am quite certain have not understood or found out what I am about to report to you all, or at least I hope they haven't.  Because if the 4 who refused to take emergency actions these past couple of months knew about this and refused to act, then we are in much worse hands than we thought.  Before I lay this on you, I must tell you that, sadly, we are out of time, we waited too long, and as a community, we are entering an absolutely horrible stage of this crisis.
- [North Plains Meeting Tonight May Deliver Surpises](https://hillsboroherald.com/north-plains-meeting-tonight-may-deliver-surpises/): A meeting is happening tonight in North Plains after the City Council has an Executive Session, which is closed to the public.  We are hearing there may be some announcements on City Councilors coming and going again.  The meeting information is listed below and can be watched live online.  The small Oregon town had been embroiled in a decision about growth and expanding the Growth boundary again, which had created significant unrest over the past several years.
- [Hillsboro Council Divided at Data Center Work Session — Dr. Alcaire Pierces the Bureaucratic Veil](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-council-divided-at-data-center-work-session-dr-alcaire-pierces-the-bureaucratic-veil/): HILLSBORO, OR — The air inside the Hillsboro City Council chambers on Tuesday night was thick with a palpable sense of political crisis, as uncomfortable as the rooftop of a Hillsboro Data Center in August. Seven weeks of swelling public anger, explosive social media posts, and a flood of frantic constituent emails over North Hillsboro’s compounding data-center boom culminated in an intense late-night work session.  They came on the promise that the Mayor and Councilors would report on the legal standing of the 17 Tax Enterprise Zone deals that had been signed.   The last statement in the Mayor's post from early May has not been addressed adequately, if at all.  The facts are that those deals are done. And more and more have followed.
- [Hillsboro Residents Asked To Attend City Council Work Session On Data Centers Tonight At 6 PM](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-residents-asked-to-attend-city-council-work-session-on-data-centers-tonight-at-6-pm/): As the City Council enters tonight’s crucial data center work session, the administration has dumped an overwhelming, multi-gigabyte avalanche of information onto the public at the absolute eleventh hour. But do not let the sheer volume of these fifty-plus slick, color-coded slides fool you. A forensic look through the data reveals that this massive dump functions more as a bureaucratic smoke screen than an exercise in true public transparency. While staff buries the community under broad regional statistics and rather defensive narratives, they have conspicuously failed to offer what we need most: a transparent, case-by-case financial accounting of exactly how much tax revenue the City of Hillsboro and Washington County have already forfeited, and the true long-term financial impacts of the 17 new agreements rushed through before the state moratorium took effect.
- [PGE Rate Increase On Data Centers Nothing To Celebrate As Residential Rates Still Two Times Higher](https://hillsboroherald.com/pge-rate-increase-on-data-centers-nothing-to-celebrate-as-residential-rates-still-two-times-higher/): If you’ve watched the local news this past week, you’d think Portland General Electric (PGE) just saved the working class. The media has been on an uncritical "victory tour," breathlessly reporting that PGE is hiking electricity rates on massive data centers by a whopping 29% while providing "welcome relief" to everyday residents. It sounds like a populist dream come true: the Silicon Forest tech monopolies are finally footing the bill, and the little guy wins.
- [Hillsboro Pride Party Will Bring Shute Park To Life This Saturday – Music, Food, Fun On Tap](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-pride-party-will-bring-shute-park-to-life-this-saturday-music-food-fun-on-tap/): This weekend, the Hillsboro Pride Party at Shute Park should be a great day and event.  The Herald is sharing the links to all the information and the City of Hillsboro website.   Thanks to the Hillsboro Downtown Partnership for sharing this information, and to the City for the work to bring great events to the community!  Here is the 411-
- [Hillsboro Meeting  And Work Session On Data Centers Fails To Deliver As Anger And Tensions Hit Boiling Point](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-meeting-and-work-session-on-data-centers-fails-to-deliver-as-anger-and-tensions-hit-boiling-point/): In her official statement of response at that time, Mayor Pace stated she could not hold the meeting because a “majority” of the Council did not support it.   In her communication to the community, the Mayor stated that more time was needed to gather information and that a work session on Data Centers would be held on June 2nd.  This meeting was highly anticipated, and community members were asked to arrive from 6-7 PM.
- [PREVIEW: Hillsboro City Hall Announces Another Big Wave Of Data Center Sites, And Legal Strategy As Meeting Looms](https://hillsboroherald.com/preview-hillsboro-city-hall-announces-another-big-wave-of-data-center-sites-and-legal-strategy-as-meeting-looms/): BREAKING NEWS: First to Report- Hillsboro has announced more Data Centers, a lot more.  In a major administrative move ahead of tonight's highly anticipated 6:00 PM City Council Work Session, the City of Hillsboro has uploaded a massive volume of new data, statutory explanations, and updated policy positions to its official website.
- [North Plains City Hall Starts Up Insane Growth Plans Again](https://hillsboroherald.com/north-plains-city-hall-starts-up-insane-growth-plans-again/): Editors Note:   North Plains City Manager and his crew are at it again. Growth at all costs!! Despite the entire City voting in a 70 % plus Majority against growth and massive Industrial Expansion, these people do not seem to care.  A plan to put hundreds of acres of big box tech and industry on the SE edge of town is at play again. Possible Data Centers and heavy industry, right next to Sunset Ridge and Atfalati Elementary School, have made their way back into the discussion and are being pushed for.  What sort of a horrible leadership group would threaten little kids and a quiet, highly valued neighborhood with steaming concrete monsters, chemicals, energy vibrations, and God knows what else?  I mean, this level of horrible planning isn't even seen in Florida and/or New Jersey!  Is this what we have become?  Or are we just being led to the edge of the cliff like so many lemmings and pushed off the ledge?  The people of North Plains have grit, creativity, and are caring, engaged citizens.  This is something that no one in their right mind, regardless of political party, should reject.  Anyone doing this and leading this sort of lunacy needs to be removed from power.  I stand with the good people of North Plains in rejecting any and all of this as a reasonable plan.
- [Hillsboro Council Faces Data Center Deals Head On At Tuesday Night Work Session And Council Meeting](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-council-faces-data-center-deals-head-on-at-tuesday-night-work-session-and-council-meeting/): Next Tuesday evening, June 2nd, 2026, at 6 PM, the City of Hillsboro will have a Work Session to hear more about Data Centers and Hillsboro's recent and shocking approval of 18 Data Center Enterprise Zone property tax waivers, some of which forfeit tens if not hundreds of millions in revenues for decades to come.   The firestorm that the approval of these "deals" has caused is unlike anything we have ever seen here in Hillsboro. In fact, this level of activity and approval of such programs, which are allowed under state law, is unlike anything we have ever seen in Oregon's history.
- [Clean Water Services is Getting a New Leader this Month – The Tough Job Ahead For Rahim Harji](https://hillsboroherald.com/clean-water-services-is-getting-a-new-leader-this-month-the-tough-job-ahead-for-rahim-harji/): Rahim must ask, Why did this happen? How can I fix it?
- [Hillsboro Makes National Data Centers News As Council Calls Executive Session To Discuss Legal Matters](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-makes-national-data-centers-news-as-council-calls-executive-session-to-discuss-legal-matters/): On Memorial Day, FOX National News ran its feature story on Hillsboro, Oregon, exposing the deep community distress the ongoing data center expansion is causing our community.  Tonight, the Hillsboro City Council will convene in a private Executive Session to consider legal matters related to the massive property tax deals it recently signed, and our most outspoken leader, Kipperlyn Sinclair, will call for strong action.
- [Hillsboro Residents Notified Of New 97129 Zip Code Change. Weigh In At The Hillsoro Herald](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-residents-notified-of-new-97129-zip-code-change-weigh-in-at-the-hillsoro-herald/): Over the past couple of weeks or so, a buzz has been growing on social media sites like NextDoor that some Hillsboro, Oregon, residents will have to adopt a new Zip Code, 97129. From what we can determine, notices were sent this month to residents in the southern parts of our city, advising them to use 97129 beginning July 1st.
- [Saturday In Hillsboro: WESTSIDE COMIC CON DEBUTS AS WASHINGTON COUNTY’S FIRST MAJOR POP CULTURE CELEBRATION](https://hillsboroherald.com/saturday-in-hillsboro-westside-comic-con-debuts-as-washington-countys-first-major-pop-culture-celebration/): Welcome to Westside Comic Con
- [Late-Arriving Ballots Reshape Washington County Elections By Micro-Margins In Dewey VS Truman Campaign](https://hillsboroherald.com/late-arriving-ballots-reshape-washington-county-elections-by-micro-margins-in-dewey-vs-truman-campaign/): Editor's Note:  Last night, the supposed "major news media" in greater Portland laid out the election results and signed off; the Hillsboro Herald was just getting to work.  Washington County progressive candidates were written off as making a "good effort"; the push was described as admirable but not enough to win.  Races were called, and the Spring elections were being tucked to bed.  No big upsets.
- [Exciting Washington County Election Results Take A Late Night Turn – Projects Outcomes Changing Fast](https://hillsboroherald.com/exciting-washington-county-election-results-take-a-late-night-turn-projects-outcomes-changing-fast/): As the midnight dust settles over the Washington County Elections office, local political landscapes are fracturing into historically tight battles. From the highly influential Board of Commissioners down to pivotal local legislative primaries, the initial returns have delivered a stark reality: the political direction of our communities is balanced on a knife's edge.
- [Hillsboro Data Center Protest Shows Growing Unrest Over Millions Of Tax Giveaways](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-data-center-protest-shows-growing-unrest-over-millions-of-tax-giveaways/): A rally was held in Hillsboro, Oregon, to protest what residents say has become an out-of-control data center buildup. Standing in the front yard of the historic Shute Farm, about 100 locals gathered with flags flying and colorful signs to hear from organizers and local leaders. Virtually every news channel was in attendance, as was a mix of Tualatin Valley DSA Members and local leaders and politicians.
- [The Data Center Timeline: A Closer Look at the May 7th Deadline and the Status of 18 Pending Agreements](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-data-center-timeline-a-closer-look-at-the-may-7th-deadline-and-the-status-of-18-pending-agreements/): EDITOR’S NOTE: This report is a comprehensive update to the investigative coverage originally published by the Herald on May 11, 2026, titled "The Phantom Halt: Mayor Beach Pace Claims Credit for a Data Center Deadline..." Following recent developments and a formal communication received from the City’s Communications Manager at 5:07 PM on May 14th, we have moved immediately to incorporate official clarifications. Although the Herald did not review the transmission until 8:07 PM, on May 14th, we have taken previous drafts offline to ensure this updated forensic analysis reflects the most current information regarding Mayoral authority and the 21-day legal window (ORS 285C.160). The Hillsboro Herald is committed to providing the most accurate accounting of the fiscal decisions impacting our community.
- [Pam Treece Plays Political Chameleon: Sending Pro-Republican Mailers While Campaigning as a Democrat](https://hillsboroherald.com/pam-treece-plays-political-chameleon-sending-pro-republican-mailers-while-campaigning-as-a-democrat/): Pam Treece, the sitting Washington County Commissioner and former PacifiCorp executive, is currently executing a masterclass in political shape-shifting. As the primary election reaches its final days, Treece has deployed a dual-identity marketing strategy that would make a branding consultant blush.
- [No Emergency Or Special Session Meeting Will Be Held As 18 Data Center “Fire Sale” Tax Giveaway Deals Get Sealed](https://hillsboroherald.com/no-emergency-or-special-session-meeting-will-be-held-as-18-data-center-fire-sale-tax-giveaway-deals-get-sealed/): Pace may say there is room for review, but data centers are owned by the world’s wealthiest firms, and dealing with their legal teams will likely prove futile. The Mayor indicates that additional time is needed to get all the information and see what can be done about the deals. The OregonLive story we reviewed this week is listed here; it says more about this. We want the information to be clear on this.
- [Get Your Ballots In The Mail Soon:  The Hillsboro Herald Endorsements For Local Races – Make Sure You Vote!](https://hillsboroherald.com/get-your-ballots-in-the-mail-soon-the-hillsboro-herald-endorsements-for-local-races-make-sure-you-vote/): The Hillsboro Herald, through a series of articles and social media posts, has been making our endorsements for local political races clear.  Realizing that many readers scan our stories, we are restating our official endorsement.  It is no surprise that Data Centers, out-of-control power rates, rising water and utility costs, and our residents' legal rights are at the top of our list of factors we consider when analyzing community political races.  Just as important is looking for candidates who are fully committed to and stand up for our community members by demanding transparency and disclosure in all matters.  Corporate interests have invaded Washington County like never before, and our ability as residents to live freely and affordably has been pushed past the breaking point.
- [The Hidden Creek Ledger: Fact-Checking the Revenue Behind Hillsboro’s Parks](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-hidden-creek-smokescreen-fact-checking-hillsboro-mayor-paces-data-center-defense/): Editor’s Note: Following our initial reporting on municipal infrastructure messaging (May 9-10), the City of Hillsboro Communications Manager provided an official, itemized breakdown from the Finance Department on May 14th at 5:07 PM regarding the exact funding for the Hidden Creek Community Center and the Hidden Creek Park West inclusive playground. In the interest of absolute accuracy and community transparency, the Herald has completely updated this report to reflect the City's precise numbers.
- [Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair Calls for Emergency Special Session to Halt Administrative Approval of Multi-Decade Data Center Tax Breaks](https://hillsboroherald.com/5-reasons-emergency-session-kipperlyn-sinclair/): FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair Calls for Emergency Special Session to Halt Administrative Approval of Multi-Decade Data Center Tax Breaks Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair Calls for Emergency Special Session to Halt Administrative Approval of Multi-Decade Data Center Tax Breaks HILLSBORO, OR - Following recent reports of a "flurry" of 18 new Enterprise Zone applications being processed by the city, Hillsboro City Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair (Ward 2) is formally calling on the Mayor and City Council to convene an Emergency Special Session. The objective of the session is to exercise the Council's legislative authority to immediately suspend the administrative execution of long-term tax abatement agreements. The move comes in response to data indicating that current administrative processes are allowing for the "chaining" of tax exemptions, effectively locking in property tax breaks for data centers into the 2050s. While a state-mandated moratorium is set to take effect in June, Sinclair argues that the current administrative acceleration necessitates an immediate reassertion of City Council oversight. "The City Council is the official Zone Sponsor of the Hillsboro Enterprise Zone, and the authority exercised by the city is delegated by this body," said Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair. "When we see an unprecedented surge in applications for agreements that span a quarter century, it is no longer an administrative formality; it is a significant policy shift that requires legislative intervention. We have the legal authority to pause these approvals today, and we must do so to ensure the Council has the opportunity to review these protocols." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7Zvt7pEy0E In a formal letter sent to the Mayor and City Council, Sinclair outlined several legal pathways the Council can take to bring order to the process: The Vision of Kipperlyn Sinclair: As a leader, Kipperlyn Sinclair emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in local governance. Rescindment of Delegated Authority: Moving the final signature authority for Enterprise Zone agreements from the City Manager back to the City Council. Emergency Administrative Moratorium: Implementing a municipal "freeze" on the processing of all pending applications until the state moratorium commences. Mandatory Council Review: Amending city policy to require a public hearing and Council vote for any tax abatement agreement exceeding a standard three-year term. Program Suspension: Exercising the Zone Sponsor’s right to temporarily suspend the local Enterprise Zone program in its entirety. "This is about maintaining the integrity of our local governance," Sinclair added. "Staff-level signatures should not be used to bypass the legislative intent of the Council or the upcoming state moratorium. We must exercise our right to review these multi-decade commitments before they are finalized behind closed doors." Sinclair is urging her fellow councilors to support the call for a special session within the next 48 hours to enact these emergency oversight measures. Ad Paid for by Friends of Smart Growth- https://www.friendsofsmartgrowth.org/
- [A Tale of Two Commissioners: Why the Herald Endorses Nafisa Fai Over Ethics-Clouded Pam Treece](https://hillsboroherald.com/herald-endorses-nafisa-fai-over-pam-treece-washington-county/): The Hillsboro Herald is endorsing Nafisa Fai for the Chair of the Washington County Commissioners over Pam Treece and Jenny Kamprath.   We do not take this lightly, and it comes after watching her do really great work for the people of Washington County over large corporations and special interests.  Here, OreStar reporting also tells the tale of a candidate who does not take money from big companies or donors.  She stands up at every turn and, in her 6th year as a County Commissioner, has several landmark actions that set her apart.  Her insistence on keeping River Road open (1 lane) over the past 6 months was notable as the other commissioners, led by Kathryn Harrington and Pam Treece, scoffed at her. She also tried to fight to keep our Washington County Museum (5 Oaks Museum) open.  Again, she was demeaned and silenced.  There are many more examples, such as keeping Washington County's DEI policies in place- also slapped down.  But through it all, Fai, a Black Somalian immigrant and Mother of three, has endured.  She is forceful, strong, and patient. In a heavily white and moderate County, one has to appreciate how great a listener and problem solver she must be to succeed as she has.  And the antics and outright verbal abuses that Kathryn Harrington is known for and has been investigated for have been leveled against Fai almost weekly.  How she has survived is a wonder. 
- [Empowering Change: Myrna Munoz For Oregon Senate District 15](https://hillsboroherald.com/myrna-munoz-transformative-voice-oregon-senate-district-15/): Your vote this May matters. You already know that. But this Primary Election carries more weight than usual. Washington County is at a turning point, and the choice in front of us is not abstract. It is immediate, local, and consequential.
- [Who Authorized the Data Center Giveaways? We’re Demanding Answers from City Manager Robby Hammond](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-data-centers-giveaways-robby-hammond/): Today, I have issued to the City of Hillsboro a FORMAL NOTICE OF STATUTORY NON-COMPLIANCE, ADMINISTRATIVE BAD FAITH, AND DEMAND FOR INDEPENDENT EXTERNAL AUDIT in regards to the data centers Enterprise Zone Tax scandal that has rocked our community. I am sharing that letter, which I, as a 60-year resident of our town and community leader, sent to Hillsboro City Manager Robby Hammond demanding immediate action against his Economic Development Director, and I am warning him of potential violations of State and local laws, and the potential for fraud and dealing in bad faith.
- [Hillsboro Locks in Data Center Tax Breaks Through 2051; “AI Factories” Slated for Millions in Subsidies](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-tax-breaks-for-data-centers-through-2051/): HILLSBORO, OR — The Hillsboro Herald has followed up on yesterday's news investigation into recently executed Enterprise Zone (EZ) agreements, revealing that the City of Hillsboro has committed to property tax exemptions for the data center industry that stretch into the next quarter-century. By utilizing a "rolling" contract strategy, some facilities, including those operated by NTT Global Data Centers, have secured a tax-free status that won't expire until 2051.
- [An Open Letter to Hillsboro: Stating The Truth About Our Data Center Future](https://hillsboroherald.com/an-open-letter-to-hillsboro-stating-the-truth-about-our-data-center-future/): Yesterday, a "Question & Answer" email from the City of Hillsboro landed in your inbox about Data Centers. It was polished, professional, and—if you look at the facts—profoundly misleading. As your City and County leaders scramble toward the May 19th election, they are desperate to change the narrative.   Strong candidates are threatening the status quo, bringing serious political change with them, opposing the Data Center giveaway and its devastating effects on our power grid, environment, and communities. Current City leaders and management suddenly want you to believe that the data center gold rush is a "utility" for your benefit.  The City itself has refused to engage or discuss Data Centers for the past 5 years, preferring to let the current build-out continue.  Now, with all of us talking about what is happening and ballots out for voting, the City is trying to sell us on the idea that Data Centers = Good things! Between a new updated Data Center 411 page at the City website, the City View Magazine being sent to every home with a Data Center puff piece, and direct city emails being sent yesterday to many of us, the City seems totally invested in selling Data Center benefits to gain trust and votes for the political machine that has brought them here.
- [Cheers to Tualatin Valley Wines ~ Spring Sips Celebrates Washington County Wine](https://hillsboroherald.com/cheers-to-tualatin-valley-wines-spring-sips-celebrates-washington-county-wine/): BEAVERTON, Ore. (April 26, 2026) – For the third consecutive year,  Explore Tualatin Valley is raising a glass to its 40-plus wineries with Spring Sips, a celebration of wine and wineries in Washington County. This year, the promotion runs May through June, with its signature event, Pink! Rosé Festival, taking place during Oregon Wine Month. Join us to savor the unique offerings of washington county wine.
- [Censored? TV Interview With Oregon Data Center Moratorium Candidates Pulled](https://hillsboroherald.com/censored-tv-interview-with-oregon-data-center-moratorium-candidates-pulled/): Good Sunday Evening to all!  We are all very busy, but very important elections are at hand.  The Voter Guides and your ballots have been sent out, and we hope you are reviewing them carefully.  The Data Center Moratorium called for on April 7th by candidates for local office, including Kipperlyn Sinclair, Myrna Munoz, and Dr. Tammy Carpenter, has sparked a political firestorm of nasty campaign tricks from their opponents.  From confusing phone calls telling voters that these same candidates are Socialists to fake handwritten letters sent by an autopen, these three powerful candidates have scared the power elite into desperate measures.
- [Residents Invited To A Gathering Saturday To Discuss Data Center Moratorium & Impacts In Washington County](https://hillsboroherald.com/residents-invited-to-a-gathering-saturday-to-discuss-data-center-moratorium-impacts-in-washington-county/): The Moratorium Petition is right here, and your signatures will help it reach the 3,000-signature mark soon.
- [The Sovereign Kingdom: Nuclear Fusion vs. BESS Batteries in the Race for Hillsboro’s Future](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-sovereign-kingdom-nuclear-fusion-vs-bess-batteries-in-the-race-for-hillsboros-future/): Hillsboro is at a structural breaking point. For years, our leadership has operated on a single promise: that if we keep expanding our borders and laying pipe, Advanced Manufacturing and semiconductor fabs will bail out the state's coffers.  But as of late April 2026, that dream is hitting a concrete wall. Senate Bill 1586, the failed 1,700-acre farm land grab in North Hillsboro, collapsed in the legislature last month. Intel is facing its own headwinds, still consolidating and belt-tightening despite an epic stock surge over the last two weeks. And most critically, the City is staring down a $600-plus million debt for the Willamette Water pipeline, launching this July, with no power left on the grid to plug in the industrial "whales" needed to pay for it.  Interest on the water pipe debt is accruing, and much of the repayment of this monstrous debt is supposed to come from large SDCs (Systems Development Charges) levied on new users. Now that we have all this bonus water (millions of gallons per day), we need to sell it to make this pencil.  The growth that brought the new water pipes and miles of systems now needs more growth to make it all pencil.
- [River Road Closure To Be Extended For Weeks After Months Of Closure](https://hillsboroherald.com/river-road-closure-to-be-extended-for-weeks-after-months-of-closure/): The Real Story- A Column
- [The Gambit: Whispers from Hillsboro’s Ronler Acres Intel Revisited As Bagger’s Predictions Now Prove Spot On](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-gambit-whispers-from-hillsboros-ronler-acres-intel-revisited-as-baggers-predictions-now-prove-spot-on/): "Whispers emanating from the unassuming landscape of Hillsboro, Oregon—home to Intel’s sprawling Ronler Acres campus—suggest a story is unfolding of a comeback so audacious it could reshape the technological world order.  " 4/21/2025 - The Hillsboro Herald
- [Nafisa Fai, Jenny Kamprath, and Pam Treece, Square Off In Town Hall Event ~ Video Coverage](https://hillsboroherald.com/nafisa-fai-jenny-kamprath-and-pam-treece-square-off-in-town-hall-event-video-coverage-2/): The race for Washington County Commission Chair is heating up as the May 19, 2026, election approaches. During a recent town hall in Forest Grove, candidates Nafisa Fai, Jenny Kamprath, and Pam Treece laid out their competing visions for the county’s future, focusing on economic growth, public safety, and government transparency.  These are three very different candidates.
- [Candidates For Washington County Commissioners District 4 Sound Off- Video Of Event Here](https://hillsboroherald.com/candidates-for-washington-county-commissioners-district-4-sound-off-video-of-event-here-2/): Six residents of Washington County are vying for your votes to win the District 4 Commissioner's seat.  Indivisible Forest Grove held another Town Hall last night, where candidates running for local office answered questions from the audience.   The Hillsboro Herald is the only local news outlet that has been present and covering these events, and we were there last night for two of them.
- [Kipperlyn Sinclair & Myrna Munoz Made The First Oregon Data Center Moratorium – Now Others Are Jumping In](https://hillsboroherald.com/kipperlyn-sinclair-myrna-munoz-made-the-first-oregon-data-center-moratorium-now-others-are-jumping-in/): One of the hottest local stories the Hillsboro Herald is covering is the Data Center Moratorium petition, put forth by Hillsboro (Oregon) City Councilor Kipperlyn Sinclair, who is a candidate for Washington County Commissioner.  She was joined on this matter by Senate Bill 15 candidate Myrna Mynoz, who is running to unseat Senator Janeen Sollman, and Dr. Tammy Carpenter, who is running for State Rep. Let the record show for all time that these brave leaders, despite being attacked and censored, stepped up first and spoke: "Truth to Power".  Only they had the guts to take the idea to stop Data Centers in Washington County and go on the record.  A ground swell around this petition, and their bravery is happening- and that is good.  But now others are stepping in to support it.  They are all welcome, as no one in power has done anything substantive on this matter until Sinclair, Munoz, and Carpenter took action. 
- [The Dredge of Desperation: Wall Street’s Plan to Tear Up the Columbia River for Hillsboro’s Data Centers](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-dredge-of-desperation-wall-streets-plan-to-tear-up-the-columbia-river-for-hillsboros-data-centers/): The Real Story - A Column
- [Data Centers and Community Conversations on Tap with Candidate Nafisa Fai This Weekend](https://hillsboroherald.com/data-centers-and-community-conversations-on-tap-with-candidate-nafisa-fai-this-weekend/): The Real Story - A Column
- [Oregon Governor Vetoes Secret Meeting Bill](https://hillsboroherald.com/oregon-governor-vetoes-secret-meeting-bill/): On Thursday, the clouds broke over Salem. Governor Tina Kotek issued her only veto of the 2026 legislative session, striking down House Bill 4177, which had passed after being championed by Hillsboro legislator Nathan Sosa. In doing so, she didn't just reject a poorly written bill; she validated the warnings of journalists, ethics experts, and every citizen who refused to accept a "cloaked" version of democracy.
- [Hillsboro May Be Out Of Power: The High Cost of the Data Center “Gold Rush”](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-may-be-out-of-power-the-high-cost-of-the-data-center-gold-rush/): Let me open with the conclusion:  Hillsboro Is Out Of Power.  If that concerns you, read on. For two decades, Hillsboro was the "bacon-saver" for Oregon’s economy. When the state needed high-paying jobs, Hillsboro delivered. But a months-long investigation by the Hillsboro Herald—documented through a trail of stone-walled public records requests and "dark" construction sites—reveals a structural paradox that is paralyzing our future: Hillsboro has officially run out of juice.
- [Hillsboro School District’s Beth Graser Wins Oregon’s 2025-26 School Communicator of the Year Award](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-school-districts-beth-graser-wins-oregons-2025-26-school-communicator-of-the-year-award/): Beth Graser was awarded the 2025–26 School Communicator of the Year by the Oregon School Public Relations Association (OSPRA) at its conference in Portland, Oregon. Graser serves as the Communications Officer for the Hillsboro School District. She was selected for her exceptional leadership in school public relations, her unwavering commitment to transparency and community engagement, and her influence as a mentor and collaborator across Oregon. Known for her human-centered approach, Graser plays a critical role in strategic planning, bond development, crisis communication, and media relations, consistently elevating trust and alignment between schools and the communities they serve.
- [The Data Center Subsidy: Is CWS “Brutalizing” Local Families to Fund Big Tech?  100% Rate Increases To Be Voted On Tuesday-](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-data-center-subsidy-is-cws-brutalizing-local-families-to-fund-big-tech-100-rate-increases-to-be-voted-on-tuesday/): The Real Story - A Column 
- [CLEAN WATER SERVICES NAMES RAHIM HARJI AS NEXT GENERAL MANAGER – AS MASSIVE RATE INCREASES ARE ON THE AGENDA](https://hillsboroherald.com/clean-water-services-names-rahim-harji-as-next-general-manager-as-massive-rate-increases-are-on-the-agenda/): Editor's Note:  There is no doubt in anyone's mind that Clean Water Services, as an agency, has been out of control and has had money management issues as well as significant internal issues, including ethical and financial problems.  And inside information provided to the Herald by many in the CWS ranks indicates that a wide range of issues still abound.  We will be covering those issues, from claims of nepotism and "new positions" being created at will for management favorites to Millions being wasted on consultants who do nothing; we are hearing it all. And most of all, a proposed 20% annual rate increase?  Next week, CWS staff plan to implement a 20% per-year rate increase for the next 5 years for what they call the "local customers". That is, customers in unincorporated Washington County, King City, Durham, and some other places.   You all need to read this proposed budget and proposed pricing of services:  https://washingtoncounty.civicweb.net/document/326968/Adopt%20Cost%20of%20Services%20Allocation%20Methodology.pdf?handle=FCCE7F07B67E4E23A069AB3BBB17DE22 Into this mess steps Rahim Harji, someone who has been an asset to the City of Hillsboro in my estimation.   It is my hope that Rahim will listen, have a whistleblower open-door system, and use his fresh eyes to sort out what is happening across this massive agency that holds a monopoly on all storm water and most of the Sanitary Sewer systems in Washington County.  A budget pushing a billion dollars ($752,169,700) is no joke. We also hope that Clean Water Services will comply with Public Information Requests - something they have not done in the past, which has led the Herald to work with the Washington County DA's office to access information.  We hope we do not have to continue to do that under Rahim's leadership.  We congratulate him on his hard work over many years to put himself in a position to attain such an important and powerful role! Press Release Washington County, Oregon—The Clean Water Services (CWS) Board of Directors will take action on Tuesday, April 14, to appoint Rahim Harji as the agency's next General Manager. Harji, who currently serves as Deputy City Manager for the City of Hillsboro, will assume the role on May 28, 2026. The Board launched its national recruitment in January 2026, working with management consulting firm Raftelis to identify candidates capable of leading a utility that provides sewer and stormwater services to more than 610,000 people in the Tualatin River Watershed. The Board set several priorities for the new General Manager, including a focus on high-quality, cost-effective essential services; transparent communication and engagement with employees and partners; fiscal discipline and affordability for ratepayers; and continued leadership in environmental innovation. "We are thrilled to welcome Rahim to Clean Water Services," said CWS Board Vice Chair Jerry Willey. "His extensive background in wastewater, stormwater, and public infrastructure, combined with his leadership experience managing large public works organizations, made him stand out in a strong field of candidates. Rahim has worked alongside CWS through his role with the City of Hillsboro, and he brings a strong understanding of this region, its communities, and the expectations our ratepayers have for this agency. With his collaborative approach and track record of results, we have confidence in Rahim to lead CWS into its next chapter." Rahim Harji - CWS Photo Harji said he looks forward to hitting the ground running. "It has been an honor to serve the residents of Hillsboro for the last six years and I am looking forward to joining the Clean Water Services team to build on the foundation this agency has established," Harji said. "Throughout the recruitment process, I was struck by how clearly the Board had defined its priorities, and by the dedication I saw in CWS staff. I had the privilege of meeting many employees and was impressed by their passion for their work, and the candidness of what they were looking for in their next leader. I am eager to work alongside them and the agency's many partners in service of the people of Washington County and the Tualatin River." Willey also recognized the contributions of Interim General Manager Rick Shanley, who has led CWS since June 2025. "Rick Shanley stepped into an incredibly important role at a critical moment for this agency, and he has led with steadiness, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to CWS and its mission," Willey said. "The Board is grateful for everything Rick has done to keep this organization stable and moving forward. We are pleased that he will support a smooth transition for Rahim and for our staff." About Rahim Harji  Rahim Harji brings more than two decades of public sector experience to Clean Water Services, with a career that spans engineering, public works management, and municipal executive leadership. Harji currently serves as Deputy City Manager for the City of Hillsboro, Oregon — a role he has held since 2023. He joined the City in 2020 as Assistant City Manager. In his time with Hillsboro, Harji has overseen a broad portfolio of city services and has worked closely with regional partners, including Clean Water Services, on infrastructure planning and community investment. Prior to joining the City of Hillsboro, Harji spent eight years with Pinellas County, Florida, where he held a number of roles, including Senior Engineer, Stormwater and Vegetation Division Director, Public Works Director, and Assistant County Administrator. In his role as Assistant County Administrator, he oversaw several large departments that provided water, sanitary sewer, transportation, reclaimed water, environmental management, solid waste, and parks services. His work in Pinellas County also included emergency management and resilience planning, giving him firsthand experience preparing critical infrastructure systems for long-term climate and operational challenges. Harji began his career as a Staff Engineer at Brown & Cullen, Inc. and subsequently served as a Civil Engineer for Alachua County and as an Engineer IV for the City of Gainesville. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering from McMaster University and an Executive Master of Public Administration from Portland State University. He is an International City/County Management Association Credentialed Manager and a licensed Professional Engineer. About Clean Water Services Clean Water Services is a county services district organized under Oregon Revised Statute 451. CWS works with Washington County and 12 partner cities to provide sewer and stormwater services in the urban areas of the Tualatin River Watershed to more than 610,000 customers and businesses. The conveyance and treatment of wastewater by CWS produces billions of gallons of clean water that are returned to the sensitive Tualatin River. CWS employs more than 450 people, who are committed to successful, uninterrupted operations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year that protect public health and the environment. The CWS Board of Directors is made up of elected officials who also serve as Washington County Commissioners. ###
- [Smart Growth Candidates Invite You Sunday Forum To Discuss Major Issues Effecting Our Livability](https://hillsboroherald.com/smart-growth-candidates-invite-you-saturday-forum-to-discuss-major-issues-effecting-our-livability/): Community News - Candidates For Local Office Invite You To Panel Discussion
- [The Hillsboro Project No One is Talking About: A $38M Private Jet “Fortress” Heading for Approval Tomorrow](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-hillsboro-project-no-one-is-talking-about-a-38m-private-jet-fortress-heading-for-approval-tomorrow/): The Real Story - A Column
- [Signatures Sought On Hillsboro Data Center Moratorium Petition Brought By Kipperlyn Sinclair](https://hillsboroherald.com/signatures-sought-on-hillsboro-data-center-moratorium-petition-brought-by-kipperlyn-sinclair/): Over the weekend, a bold duo of candidates for Public Office (Kipperlyn Sinclair and Myrna Munoz)  threw down the gauntlet and announced a petition to leaders in Washington County and the City of Hillsboro, Oregon, calling for a moratorium on all data centers from this point forward.  The petition has just been put online with a call for supporters to sign it and stand behind the call to action. It is taking off, sending a warning shot across the offices of the status quo, who allowed upwards of 30 Data Centers into Hillsboro, weakening our city and sending our power rates soaring.
- [Tonight In Historic Downtown Hillsboro:  Pizza Pie With Nafisa Fai Offers Chance To Meet The Candidate & Grab A  Bite](https://hillsboroherald.com/tonight-in-historic-downtown-hillsboro-pizza-pie-with-nafisa-fai-offers-chance-to-meet-the-candidate-grab-a-bite/): It is a beautiful Sunday in Washington County, and no doubt many of you are going to have a busy day out and about the valley!  Well, if you work up a hunger and want a chance to meet one of our County Commissioners and most active leaders, pop into Downtown Hillsboro for a slice of Pizza.  Nafisa Fai and her campaign invite you to come share some Pizza and ideas on how to make our community better.  This is a great chance to enjoy the end of the day and learn more about her historic campaign.
- [The Great Snap-Back: How the Rose City Can Out-Think the Silicon Forest And Lasso AI For A Golden Era](https://hillsboroherald.com/the-great-snap-back-how-the-rose-city-can-out-think-the-silicon-forest-and-lasso-ai-for-a-golden-era/): The Real Story - A Column
- [Local Candidates Focused On People Over Corporate Interests Host Gathering April 20th](https://hillsboroherald.com/local-candidates-focused-on-people-over-corporate-interests-host-gathering-april-20th/): Candidates Blayne Soleymani-Pearson: Washington County Commission - District 2, Nafisa Fai: Washington County Chair, and Dr. Tammy Carpenter: State Representative - House District 27, Invite You to Join Them!
- [Open House At Historic Farm For Candidate Myrna Munoz This Saturday – Come Eat, Meet, & Talk About The Issues](https://hillsboroherald.com/open-house-at-historic-farm-for-candidate-myrna-munoz-this-saturday-come-eat-meet-talk-about-the-issues/): Editor's Note:  This is a Community Event Press Release
- [Local Roots, Rock & Roll DNA: Maddie Hurst to Launch Debut Album at The Vault](https://hillsboroherald.com/local-roots-rock-roll-dna-maddie-hurst-to-launch-debut-album-at-the-vault/): HILLSBORO, OR — For those who have spent any time in Downtown Hillsboro over the last decade, the name Maddie Hurst likely rings a bell. Whether she was busking at the Farmers Market as a child, fronting the all-girl rock trio Why Joe-Y as a pre-teen,  blowing the roof off Pizzario with her band In Retrograde,  or the couple of years with her musical cohort Ky Fifer, Hurst has grown up in the spotlight of our city’s streets. Now, the homegrown talent is ready to transition from local prodigy to professional recording artist with the launch of her debut full-length album, "Peak on the Hill."
- [Hillsboro’s Big Water Pipe: A $1.6 Billion Lifeline or a Data Center Subsidy?](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboros-big-water-pipe-a-1-6-billion-lifeline-or-a-data-center-subsidy/): The Real Story- A Column

## Pages
- [The Real Story Column](https://hillsboroherald.com/about-us/the-real-story-column/): The Real Story – A Column
- [About Dirk Knudsen](https://hillsboroherald.com/about-us/about-dirk-knudsen/): Dirk is a 62-year resident of Washington County.  He grew up in Garden Home as a young kid, spending time at Alpenrose, the Hunt Club, Vermont Hills, and Progress, before moving to a small farm in the historic city of Orenco; now a part of Hillsboro.  Dirk went to West Union Elementary, East (Brown) Jr. High, Mid High (old Hillsboro Union High School), and HilHi, where he graduated with High honors, surviving a year where no school buses were provided and the school triple-shifted due to a student population that went past 2,800 students.  From the local paper route for the Hillsboro Argus to picking strawberries, he lived a hard-scrabble life with his family.  His Father, Jack Knudsen, was an All-American football player who taught and coached in Portland for two decades in the 1960s and 1970s.  HI Mother, Caryl, raised the 4 kids and was a community leader and Volunteer for 50 years, taking the Edwards Center from a day center for adults with special abilities to one of the largest and most effective housing and community providers for those residents.  Dirk lettered in 4 sports and was a member of the mighty HilHi Spartans 1981 Basektball team who lost the state Title game, 74-73, to A.C.Green's Benson Techmen. Learn more About Dirk Knudsen.
- [Friends Of Gordon Faber Recreation Complex](https://hillsboroherald.com/friends-of-gordon-faber-recreation-complex/): HELP - Our Community Gathering Place And Jewell of a Sports Complex Is Under Threat
- [Hillsboro Herald Terms Of Service](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-herald-terms-of-service/): Last updated: November 06, 2022
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- [Hillsboro 2022 4th of July Photo Contest](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-2022-4th-of-july-photo-contest/)
- [4th of July Photo Contest](https://hillsboroherald.com/4th-of-july-photo-contest/)
- [Hillsboro 2022 July 4th Parade Photo Contest](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-2022-july-4th-parade-photo-contest/)
- [Hillsboro, Oregon 2020 Best Of Holiday Lights Contest](https://hillsboroherald.com/hillsboro-oregon-2020-best-of-holiday-lights-contest/)
- [Write For The Herald](https://hillsboroherald.com/about-us/write-for-the-herald/): From: Dirk Knudsen; Editor/Co-Founder 
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