Political Signage Rules
The Oregon Department of Transportation issued reminders for those posting political signs leading up to the May primary and beyond. If signs are located in right of way of any highway they may be removed without notice. They are also prohibited on trees, utility poles, fence posts and other natural features within the right of way. ODOT says right of ways varies from case to case and can be from curb to curb or up to 200 feet from the highway. Signs are also limited to 12 square feet. There is also a ban on flashing or intermittent lights, animation or moving parts. They can also not mimic actual official highway signs or devices and they are not allowed on scenic corridors. There are also restrictions placed on signs on private property that are visible from the highway. ODOT suggest that you contact them if you have questions about the regulations.
COVID-19 Rising Again
After 9 weeks of steady declines the Oregon Health Authority has released COVID-19 numbers that show a 42% increase in a single week. Yesterday the OHA reported 1,988 cases. There was also an increase in deaths over the same period with 140, up from 99 the previous week. There were, however, fewer hospitalizations although yesterday’s number showed an increase of 5 with 103 persons and 20 in ICU. Lane County Numbers were not updated yesterday.
Drone Usage in Oregon Parks
Oregon Parks and Recreation wants to update rules on Drone use in state parks and they are looking for input from the public. Oregonians now have until 5 pm April 15th to make comments about proposed rules regulating the operation of drones in Oregon State Parks. The original deadline had been today (April 7th). They are being considered in order to provide “clarity” for drone pilots and hobbyists; as well as the general public as to just where drones can take off or land, or whether or not their use is outright prohibited in state parks. A special opportunity for individuals to provide direct comment to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission is scheduled for Wednesday, April 13th at the Oregon Garden Resort east of Salem. You don’t have to appear in person, you may register to provide them by video link or you may submit them in writing via email or U.S. Mail. It’s not clear when the commission will make a final determination, but the matter is on the agenda April 15th.
Oyster Warning From ODA
It is important to know where your shellfish comes from. The Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Department of Agriculture have issued a warning for oysters harvested from British Columbia. They have been linked to a norovirus-like illness reported in several states including Oregon. More than 300 people have fallen ill. There have been no instances of illness from oysters harvested in Oregon. Other shellfish from BC may contain contaminants that could produce illness and the ODA is recommending that any shellfish from there be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 for a minimum of 15 seconds. Symptoms of norovirus are vomiting, and or diarrhea, nausea, muscle aches, fever and headache. They typically begin 12 to 48 hours after consumption and can last 1 to 3 days.
Transit Money
Public transit could get an economic boost in Florence. Congressman Peter DeFazio announced yesterday that Oregon will receive more than 153 million dollars for public transit across the state in fiscal year 2022. DeFazio says the funds will be fast-tracked by the federal government. The funds come from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund.
