Alex Zielinski
Alex Zielinski covers Portland city politics. Prior to joining OPB, Alex covered city government for the Portland Mercury. She’s also worked as a journalist in San Antonio, Texas, and Washington, D.C. Alex grew up among the California redwoods and graduated from the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication. Send Alex story ideas at azielinski@opb.org.
Latest Stories
Portlanders are dissatisfied with the city’s affordability, survey finds
When asked what aspect of the city they were most dissatisfied with, a May poll found that affordability was the top concern.
Portland City Council scrambles to balance budget in marathon meeting
Portland’s new city councilors tentatively passed their first budget Wednesday, in a unanimous vote that came after a far more divisive debate.
LA protests prompt concern, preparation among Oregonians scarred by 2020
OPB reached out to local and state officials in Oregon, as well as Portlanders who protested in 2020, to find out what they learned from the federal law enforcement deployment during that time and what it might mean if tensions rise locally.
Cities choose different paths to build their tribal affairs offices
Portland uses Seattle’s structure as a model for its tribal relations program, but with a key difference — there's no Indigenous Advisory Council.
Portland’s engagement with Native nations gets mixed reviews
One of the main roles of Portland’s tribal relations manager is to engage with Native nations across Oregon — but those conversations haven't always happened.
Portland’s Tribal Relations office was once a national leader. What happened?
Indigenous community leaders and tribal officials see an opportunity to get Portland's Tribal Relations Program back on track — if city leaders are willing to listen.
On a dragon boat team, Portland’s new city councilors learn how to paddle in the same direction
Portland City Councilors learn how to work together on a dragon boat team.
Portland councilors fret over fate of parks levy
Portland City Council discussed the fate of the parks bureau Monday.
Wilson, Kotek announce slate of policy changes to accelerate housing development in Portland
The proposals center on expediting construction and turning more empty office buildings into housing. Some concepts will require Portland City Council approval to go into effect.
Portland councilors vote to use new police funding to maintain parks
Portland City Councilors tentatively approved a budget that patches gaps in parks maintenance with police funding. The decision came just under the wire after a 12-hour Wednesday meeting – but not without fireworks.
