Mural Controversy
Controversy has arisen over the mural that is proposed for the maintenance building belonging to Central Lincoln PUD. Social Media has been vocal about the project and comments range from approval to strong dislike of the design chosen by the Public Arts Committee, but Florence City Manager, Erin Reynolds says that while comments are controversial, City Council does not take its lead from those comments, for opinions to be expressed properly, they have to come directly to the council’s attention.
“We do need something written, something addressed to the city and either dropped off at city hall or sent by email to our city recorder, Kelli Weese or sent to our planning department, which is as simple as planning department at ci dot Florence dot OR dot US.
Reynolds says that before the project can move forward that a mural permit needs to be issued by the city, and that the artist contracted is aware of the process. It is expected to be brought before the council during its first meeting in April. Opponents of the mural say that not enough public discussion was given to the project from the time the artist was selected to the Public Arts Committee approval of the design. There were public meetings held, but few citizens voiced opposition during the vetting process
Revision Construction
Construction continues to move forward at a brisk pace on the corridor from 126 to the bridge. 6th and 7th street at Highway 101 is currently closed and traffic has been restored to 8th street after a brief closure. Crews are in the area daily and traffic is limited to one southbound lane at this time. Authorities are asking that drivers please strictly observe the posted speed limit, which is 30. Workers are in the area and pedestrians will still be crossing highway 101 at times. Enforcement is expected to be beefed up in the construction zone.
Port Seeks To Employ Seasonal Worker(s)
The Port of Siuslaw is gearing up for the spring and summer tourist season. They are currently looking for a full time seasonal maintenance staff which has the potential of becoming a full time regular position with duties that encompass grounds keeping, fueling, janitorial and maintenance. At the same time the Port is also seeking a year round camp host for either a single person or a couple. Experience in camp hosting is preferred and they must have their own Rv. Duties include reservations, registration, security checks and janitorial duties.
Suspect Not Yet in Custody
Florence Police Department are currently looking for a suspect that fled after a high speed chase. 39 year old Jerry Joseph Strosnider was wanted in Florence for probable cause on a felony assault case when his vehicle was seen leaving the Veneta area heading toward Florence. Oregon State Police approached the vehicle in Mapleton when the pursuit began. Florence police laid a spike strip down just east of North Fork Road on Highway 126 and successfully spiked the vehicles tires. Strosnider was able to continue into Florence and abandoned the vehicle on 8th street near the entrance to safeway and escaped on foot. After several hours of searching, including the use of canine support from Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department they were unable to locate Strosnider. Florence Police say if you know the whereabouts of Strosnider or see him, do not approach, but call Florence Police as soon as possible.
