Salem Mayor Julie Hoy has been found in violation of Oregon’s public meetings law after the Oregon Government Ethics Commission issued a default final order concluding she helped convene a quorum of the Salem City Council outside public view while city leadership issues were being discussed. The case, listed as 25-159PJS, appeared on the commission’s April 10 agenda as a default final order with a recommended Letter of Education.
In the order, the commission found that between Feb. 1 and Feb. 14, 2025, Hoy participated in bringing together a quorum of council members through a series of in-person, written and phone communications, while also acting as an intermediary. The matters discussed, the order says, included the city’s leadership audit, former City Manager Keith Stahley’s performance, and whether to terminate his employment. The commission concluded those discussions happened without the public notice, minutes or recording required under Oregon law.
The order found one violation each of ORS 192.630(1), ORS 192.630(2), ORS 192.640(1), ORS 192.650(1), OAR 199-050-0015(4), and OAR 199-050-0020(1) and (2). In practical terms, the commission determined that council discussions on matters within the body’s authority took place outside the public process. For Salem, that finding adds another layer to the long-running debate over how key city leadership decisions were handled during the upheaval around the city manager’s office.
The case developed over more than a year. Commission records show a complaint was received on March 12, 2025. The commission voted on June 13, 2025 to open an investigation, and by Oct. 10, 2025, staff had advanced a recommendation for preliminary findings of violation. The final order says Hoy was sent notice on Feb. 4, 2026 and had 21 days to request a contested case proceeding, but did not do so. That is why the matter moved forward as a default final order rather than a hearing-based decision.
Hoy, in a statement provided to the Salem Business Journal, said she respects the commission’s role but disagrees with its conclusion. “I appreciate the time and attention the Commission has given to this matter. I respect the role they play in helping ensure transparency and accountability in our local government. I want to be clear: throughout this process, I have been truthful in describing my actions. At no point did I ask my colleagues how they intended to vote, and I took care to stay within the boundaries as I understood them. Like any leader, I’m always looking for ways to improve how I serve the people of Salem, and I will take to heart any guidance that helps me do that more effectively. At the same time, I cannot agree to or sign a statement that requires me to affirm something I do not believe to be true. I am grateful for our new City Manager. Krishna’s leadership has been crucial for the work we have been able to accomplish this past year. My focus remains where it has always been — on doing the work, serving this community with integrity, and continuing the progress we’ve made together.”
The sanction is limited but still notable. The commission imposed a Letter of Education instead of a civil penalty. The order also says Hoy may seek judicial review in the Oregon Court of Appeals within 60 days of service. The ruling lands as Hoy remains an active political figure in Salem and is listed by the city as a candidate in the May 19, 2026 mayoral primary.
Oregon Ethics Commission notes: Click here
