Graduation
80 soon-to-be-former students at Siuslaw High School will be celebrated Friday evening during annual commencement exercises. The class of 2023 has four valedictorians, each with the highest possible academic marks. They are Faith Lumadue, Owen Harkelrode, Kyle Hughes and Alexander Goss. There are three Salutatorians, each with the second highest academic honors: Jacob Blankenship, Gabriella Jarman, and Ian Sissel. KCST will air the proceedings live for the fourth straight year. It goes on the air Friday at 6:45 with the ceremony beginning at seven PM. Bob Sneddon will anchor the broadcast, assisted by Chuck Johnson, a teacher and coach at S-H-S. In addition to airing live on KCST 106.9, the audio will also stream on the live Youtube video feed on the school’s website.
Coos Forest Burn Season Ends
For the 11th year in a row, the Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department will not issue burn barrel or debris burning permits within the Reedsport City limits for the 2023 fire season. There will be no exceptions to this policy for the duration of fire season. The Fire Department will stop issuing permits on Friday, June 9th 2023. This will occur the same day Coos Forest Protective Association declares fire season is in effect in their area.
Budget Numbers
Monday’s city council Meeting saw the passing of the city’s Biennial budget. The two year projected operating costs will come in just under 76.5 million dollars. The budget consists of 19,087,100 dollars for the general fund, 15,028,200 dollars for the wastewater, 8,787,300 for the water fund, 8,561,000 for the street fund, 4,362,800 for the public works administration fund, 3,908,800 for the stormwater fund, 3,797,600 for the debt service fund and 3,580,700 for the Florence Events Center fund. The approved budget was an increase of 3.95% over the previous biennial budget.
Planning Commission Vacancy
The city of Florence planning commission is currently recruiting. There is currently one vacancy on the commission and the deadline for applications is Sunday June 18th. The position will be to fill the remainder of the term set to expire in May of 2026. The commission reviews and makes recommendations on land use and zoning rules and regulations and serves as the design review board.
Pupping Season
It is pupping season along the Oregon Coast and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is asking the public to not disturb resting seals and sea lions that may be resting on the beach. Harbor seal mothers will often leave their pup alone on the beach or rocks while she feeds and will not return if there is activity near her pup. It is not uncommon to see a California sea lion or an elephant seal. Do not approach.
