Voters turn down construction levy
Siuslaw School board chair Tammy Butler said she had mixed emotions yesterday morning when she saw the results of the vote on a school levy that would have paid for construction of a new high school.
Tammy Butler – “I think we’re going to need to sit down together as a board and figure out what, what now.”
Butler said the board will schedule a special meeting, as early as next week, to talk about the next step after 53-percent of voters casting ballots in the election said “no”. Still, she added, there were some positives.
Tammy Butler – “I was very thankful for the yes votes and the engagement of our community during the process. You know our district has had a history of support from the community and this process I think has strengthened the ties between our schools and the community.”
Her overwhelming feeling, though, was different.
Tammy Butler – “But, I also felt a lot of disappointment and concern as to how the district will be able to financially address the many issues in our buildings, especially in a building that will eventually need to be replaced.”
The $36.9-million, 25-year levy would have funded construction of a new high school in Florence.
Septic inspection changes made in Dunes City
Dunes City Councilors approved a new city ordinance last week that retains the requirement for periodic septic system inspections. But, says City Administrator Jaimie Mills, it will change how often the inspections will be required.
Jamie Mills – “It’ll gradually change from a strict five-year to one based on current usage and individual circumstances.”
That means households with higher occupancy may need more frequent inspections, while smaller households or vacation homes can go longer in between.
The change also removes the septic system inspection requirement from the city’s land use regulations and shifts it into the general ordinances. Residents received notifications this week as to the change. Mills said it won’t be final until after a 21-day waiting period during which it could be appealed to the state Land Use Board of Appeals.
Law Enforcement and Public Works Appreciation
You may have noticed the blue ribbons adorning street signs, trees and everything else at the intersection of Highways 101 and 126 this week. Those are there to signify National Law Enforcement Week. Florence City Manager Erin Reynolds said she and elected officials are happy to be supporting police officers this week.
200 – “As well as the National Public Works Week. Those are two great groups of employees we have for the city that do so much behind the scenes to keep our city running.”
Reynolds said it’s appropriate that they’re showing appreciation to both groups this week.
Erin Reynolds – “It is our biggest week of the year and we could not have a successful Rhododendron Festival without the police department and without our public works.”
No specific events are planned, but Reynolds said they have special treats in store all week long.
Price of driving
Drivers in Florence are paying two-cents a gallon on average more for gas this week than last week… and 47-cents less than they did last year at this time.
This week’s average cash price for regular gas in Florence is $2.38 a gallon. Marie Dodds with Triple-A of Oregon said the statewide average price is up four cents this week at $2.45.
The national average price gained two cents. It’s at $2.23 a gallon.
Parade volunteers still sought
Already about 100-entries have been entered into Sunday’s Grand Floral Parade. The 109th Rhododendron Festival is under way and Chamber of Commerce Events Coordinator Nancy Pearson says they have space for a few more people to help out.
Nancy Pearson – “We do have some spots that we could still use some help on. And that is some volunteers to help. You know, if you want to be behind the scenes and see how the parade actually comes together. This is the best place to do it and it’s to be a volunteer.”
Parade volunteers are needed for the staging area Sunday morning. Pearson said for details and information on how to sign up, all you need to do is call the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center or stop by.
Applebee honored
Former Florence Area Chamber of Commerce director Cal Applebee was recognized earlier this month for his efforts at promoting the visitor industry in Lane County. Applebee retired from the Florence Chamber in February, and also stepped down from his position on the board of Travel Lane County.
He, along with two other retiring board members, Andy Vobora and Glenda Polling, were praised during the organization’s Visitor Industry Celebration May 6th.
Applebee’s retirement from tourism related activities was a short one. Within 60 days he accepted the post as the part-time Executive Director of the Oregon Coast Military Museum.