Former Veneta Resident Arrested
A man who formally lived in the Veneta area has been arrested for having images of Child pornography and for attempting to solicit sex from a 13 year old. 45 year old Lon Curtis Coffey was taken into custody after sheriff’s deputies received information from the Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce that 30 separate files obtaining child pornography had been uploaded to a residence in Veneta. Detectives searched the house and were able to determine that Coffey while a resident of the home had uploaded the images. Detectives also learned that two years ago Coffey had attempted to groom an 11 year old girl to solicit sex. The now 13 year olds guardian granted detectives permission to use the girls Facebook account to contact Coffey and within two days Coffey stated that he wanted to have sex with her and drove down from the Albany area where he was arrested. Coffey admitted to law enforcement that he had been actively pursuing child pornography for more than 10 years. Lane County Sheriff’s office would like to hear from the public if your child has had any dealings with Coffey. You can call 541-682-4150.
Chamber to Receive Grant
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce will be the recipient of a $30,500 grant from the Oregon Tourism Commission. The money is part of a 1.4 million dollar dispersement to help communities with identifying accessibility to individuals with disabilities through discussions with local businesses. The money will also provide training through the Wheel the World Academy. Chamber President and CEO Bettina Hannigan says the end result is a more accessible Florence for visitors. Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon says the grants directly support a range of improvements to enhance accessibility and inclusion for all travelers.
Committee and Board Recruitment
The city of Florence has released information pertaining to Florence Committee recruitment that is now taking place. Individuals who would like to volunteer for a committee can find information at the city’s website ci.florence.or.us/boardsandcommissions. They are currently soliciting for the Transportation Committee and the Budget Committee. The city is also accepting applications for the Florence Urban Renewal Agency. The agency consists of 9 members 5 of which are citizens at large. FURA will give special consideration for elected members of governing bodies of the Western Lane Ambulance District, the Port of Siuslaw, Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue and the Siuslaw Library District. Applications are available at the aforementioned website.
OHA Offers to Pay Licensing Fees
The Oregon Health Authority has announced that it is partnering with the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers to pay for the licensing application fees for aspiring social workers. A license is required to anyone seeking to enter the behavioral health field as a social worker in Oregon. Fees can be up to $460 dollars depending on the license. The benefit will run from February 1st of this year through February 19th of 2024.
