📈 Will Portland start growing again?

In a Reversal, Portland’s Population Increases

Portland’s population grew slightly — by 800 people — in the 12 months ending in July, according to estimates from Portland State researchers. That’s notable, because for the previous three years the number of Portlanders has declined. [Oregonian 🔒]

$107K on Ballot Box Security

After arson destroyed hundreds of ballots, Clark County, Wash., spent $107,000 on security to monitor dropboxes in the eight days before Election Day. Law enforcement has yet to find the attacker. [Oregonian 🔒]

Why Oregon’s a Magnet for Cults

Oregon has a reputation in popular culture for its long history with cults. Why is that? Is it the cheap abundant land, mystic moody vibes, or the lack of competition from organized religion? [City Cast Portland 🎧]

Today we have some reader responses:

🎄 Holiday Season Start

I asked for your perspective on when the holiday season actually starts in Portland. Here are two notable responses:

“My eyes were assaulted by a full-on Christmas candy display (at New Seasons of all places) on October 20th, so there you go.” — Leah

“Christmas Season OFFICIALLY starts at the end of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade when Santa Claus makes his appearance. Any hint of Christmas prior to that is sacrilege. 😊” — Courtney

🏠 Housing Development

I ran a news story on the call for more housing development as a way of increasing the state’s population. One reader had thoughts:

“More housing usually means more small apartments are built, with nothing lovely around them, no parking, nothing to anchor them to longevity. You can't raise families in dinky apartments with no place for children to play, no safe streets, no parks, just concrete corridors. Inner Portland is going to end up liveable only for singles who don't need to go anywhere or do anything but eat out.” — Cynthia