AP-OR–1st NewsMinute,244
Here is the latest Oregon news from The Associated Press
COOS BAY, Ore. (AP) – Backers of a proposal to build a liquefied
natural gas import terminal at Coos Bay, Ore., have taken the first
step to convert their project to an export terminal. Jordan Cove
Energy Project filed a $50 application Thursday with the U.S.
Energy Department. That’s a precursor to a full export application
with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. U.S. gas producers
are looking at such exports as an opportunity given the development
of shale gas fields.
SISTERS, Ore. (AP) – A new central Oregon wildfire quickly
burned an estimated 300 acres, or half a square mile of brush and
scattered trees. The Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center
says the Alder Springs Fire was reported Thursday afternoon. Its
cause is under investigation. Dispatch center spokesman Bill Queen
tells KTVZ that there are about five private ranches facing
possible evacuation due to the fire, located about five miles
southwest of Culver.
SALEM, Ore. (AP) – Oregon budget officials say recently ratified
contracts with major state-worker unions will cost millions more
than lawmakers budgeted. The estimated $42 million spending
shortfall is the latest hit to a budget already reeling from lower
revenue projections.
SALEM, Ore. (AP) – The state Senate has confirmed Gov. John
Kitzhaber’s nominees to the Health Insurance Exchange Board. The
Senate confirmation on Thursday allows the nine-member board to
begin work on creating the health insurance exchange, a corporation
that will help connect consumers and small businesses with health
insurance.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-09-23-11 0403EDT
