The latest news for you

Weekly E-blast

Staying Informed and Connected

Stay informed with our weekly E-blast!

Check out the sections below for updates on city services, events, and ways to get involved. From community programs to staying up-to-date, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged.

City Updates

Woodburn Police releases 2024 data

In 2024, the Woodburn Police Department responded to about 14,623 calls for service—that’s an average of 1,218 calls per month! This was 133 fewer calls than in 2023.

Arrests increased by 122, bringing the total to 1,212 arrests for the year. While most arrests occur without the use of force, in 2024, 1 out of 19 arrests required officers to use force to effect an arrest.

Want to learn more? Check out the 2024 Use of Force & Vehicle Pursuit Report.

Considering installing a fence or freestanding wall?

The City requires permits for fences and free-standing walls, and they’re free of charge. A wall or fence permit is required to help property owners understand and follow the rules and to lessen complaints by neighbors.

One rule that might surprise you is that fences and walls in residential front yards – and on a corner lot, also in the other yard – must be much shorter than the conventional 5 or 6 feet.

View the Fences & Free-Standing Walls webpage for details before commissioning your next fence or wall.

Woodburn City Council's next meeting is Monday, April 14th,

7 pm, Woodburn City Hall. You can find the meeting agenda here.

You can view past Council meetings on our YouTube channel.

Community Information

April is Alcohol Awareness Month

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to learn about how alcohol can affect people’s lives. It’s not about blaming or judging—it’s about helping people understand the risks of alcohol misuse and offering support to those who need it.

What is Alcohol Awareness Month?

Alcohol Awareness Month was started to help people learn about alcohol use and the problems that can come from drinking too much. It also gives families and communities a chance to talk openly about alcohol, addiction, and how to support healthy choices.

Signs of Alcohol Addiction

Not everyone who drinks has a problem, but it’s important to know the signs of alcohol addiction. These can include:

• Drinking more than planned or not being able to stop

• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking

• Choosing alcohol over work, school, or family responsibilities

• Getting into risky situations while drinking (like driving)

• Feeling sick, shaky, or anxious when not drinking

If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, it may be time to seek help.

Read more...Resources

Community Connections: Oregon Human Development Corporation

The Oregon Human Development Corporation (OHDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping farmworkers and low-income individuals across Oregon. Through programs like job training, housing assistance, education, and emergency aid, OHDC works to improve economic opportunities and help people become self-sufficient.

OHDC is part of the National Farmworker Job Program (NFJP), which is under the U.S. Department of Labor. This program provides farmworkers with employment and training opportunities, including classroom education and job placement assistance. By helping farmworkers gain new skills and find stable employment, OHDC supports families in building better futures.

The OHDC office in Woodburn is one of nine regional offices in Oregon and has been serving the community since 1979. Located at 1585 N. Pacific Hwy, Suite S, the office is open Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM. They can also be reached by phone at (503) 982-5100.

If you or someone you know could benefit from OHDC’s programs, visit the Woodburn office to learn more about available services. Together, we can build stronger communities and brighter futures!

Celebrating Frances Alvarado:

A Legacy of Dedication and Service

After 37 years of dedicated service at Oregon Human Development Corporation (OHDC), Frances is retiring, leaving behind an incredible legacy. As the heart of the Woodburn office, she served as Office Manager, employment counselor, and farmworker advocate, profoundly impacting countless lives.

Frances worked tirelessly to support farmworkers and low-income individuals, helping them find stable jobs, housing, and financial independence. Her greatest joy came from seeing former clients return to share their successes—proof of her lasting impact.

Beyond OHDC, Frances has been a vital part of the Woodburn community, collaborating with organizations like Chemeketa Community College, Marion Polk Food Share, CASA, and others to drive real change through partnership.

We wish her all the best in this well-earned next chapter!

Coming in May: Railroad Education Workshop

Stop. Look. Listen. Stay Safe!

Railroad safety is something we should all talk about. Whether you're teaching kids, reminding a friend, or practicing safe habits yourself, spreading awareness can save lives.

This May, let's commit to staying alert, making safe choices, and keeping ourselves and our community safe around railroad tracks.

Upcoming Events

The annual Clean-up Day is around the corner!

Upcoming April/May events:

Check out additional newsletters from around town: