City Gets First 2 ADU Requests
The City of Florence has received its first two requests for Accessory Dwelling Units provided under the new state law that went into effect on July 1st. according to an email distributed by the planning department that included information about several different types of applications received. This is a move toward affordable housing according to Mayor Joe Henry. As information becomes more widely distributed about the allowances the city is granting for no-charge hookups to city water and sewer the move towards more accessory dwelling units it expected. Currently the city council is allowing for any ADU to be added to the system without charge and the city has also lowered its rates for new homes being built to encourage new construction. There is a shortage of affordable housing for workers on the lower end of the pay scale and the city hopes that offering more affordable options for current land and home owners they will be more likely to seize the opportunity to increase the value of their property and to provide income while also providing additional housing units. Information about ADUs can be found on the city’s website.
County Trucks Pre-Striping
Striping of the streets in Florence is scheduled to begin Wednesday, but yesterday crews were out striping intersections with reflective patches. Trucks were making the rounds yesterday laying down heat transferred strips along crosswalk areas throughout the city. They will continue to work around town today and will be on streets placing temporary cones in the areas they are working. Drivers should proceed with caution and also be prepared for slight delays as the vehicles, will at times, be parked in intersections. Painting is still scheduled to begin tomorrow.
ODOT Sets Grants for Safe School Routes
The Oregon Department of Transportation has announced the availability of 16 million dollars in grant money that will be made available for communities that are taking part in the Safe Routes To School Initiative. The Safe Routes to School program is set to address the barriers to children walking or biking to school and to provide financial support to encourage items like bike lanes, new sidewalks, crosswalks and signage. Cities are encouraged to apply for the program and have to complete a letter of intent by the end of August.
City Celebration – 125 Years
The City of Florence is pulling out all the stops for the 125th celebration of Florence. Friday evening at 5:30 the portion of Bay Street from Laurel to just east of the bridge will be closed to allow for a safe celebration. City Manager Erin Reynolds says the city will be well represented and there will be plenty of activities including bouncy houses for the kids and other displays.
“We’ll have all of our community vehicles around and on display, such as police vehicles, fire department vehicles and then both museums will be highlighted to talk about the history of Florence.”
The celebration is scheduled to last until 9 pm with live music. There will be no food vendors. The city is encouraging people to shop in the local stores and restaurants during the event.