Welcome to the Auburn Journal’s “Noon Hour Update,” where we’ll present you with stories and updates on what’s going on in the news and what we’re working on for our Tuesday edition.

What we’re working on:  A Motel 6 in Auburn caught fire early Monday morning, forcing guests to be evacuated into the cold. Reporter Andrew Westrope has been out to the motel today and will have a story on what happened and how much damage was inflicted by the fire.

One homeowner lost their home in a fire in Colfax early this Monday morning as well. Read the story from our sister publication, the Colfax Record, on what happened.

The Auburn City Council will be reviewing a new transparency in bargaining policy for potential adoption at its meeting Monday night. Currently, the details of contract negotiations are only made public once the deal is finalized, and that comes with a one-year fiscal impact analysis. Reporter Jon Schultz will be at the meeting and will have a story on the vote.

In Sports, Del Oro High School grad Austin Smotherman is back swinging the golf clubs at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. Read about how he’s recovering from a surgery and looking forward to the golf season.

What you’re talking about: A couple of stories from our Sunday edition have readers weighing in online. Our update story on the rehabilitation of an abused dog and our piece on Newcastle firefighters moving back into their station have people sharing their views. Read these stories and more and express your opinions.

Have a news tip or photo to share?: Let us know, email us photos or information at ajournal@goldcountrymedia.com; on Facebook or on Twitter at @AuburnJournal