Salem councilors staying mum in instances, fearing ethics trouble

Salem city councilors are hoping for some guidance and clarity on new state rules dictating public meetings after attending a training that left them with the impression that speaking with the press or with their constituents at neighborhood associations is risky business.

The training was put on earlier this year by the Oregon Government Ethics Commission.

Shortly after, city administrators decided that Salem councilors should temporarily avoid attending neighborhood association meetings. Councilors have also refrained…