Cannery Dunes Project
Stalled Cannery complex still has life. The Florence planning commission will consider a request to extend the approval of a proposed Senior Assisted Living Facility and accompanying ‘transitional housing” next week. Florence Community Development Director Wendy Farley Campbell said developers of the Cannery Dune project across Highway 101 from Fred Meyer are seeking the 12-month extension to allow them to finalize the funding for their project. The original expiration was in May, but the extension was requested in April. The intention is to begin constructing the “public improvements” such as streets and sidewalks by early 2024, with construction on the buildings coming after that. The Planning Commission meets Tuesday, July 25, 5:30, at Florence City Hall. After some initial clearing early in the project, the property has sat idle for two years.
Haight Creek Fire
Firefighting efforts on the 50-acre Haight Creek Fire South of Veneta impacted recreation on Fern Ridge Reservoir Wednesday. The Lane County Sheriff’s department issued an advisory that firefighting aircraft would be “scooping” water from the lake and boaters were advised to use extreme caution. The Haight Creek Fire is burning in steep forest-land in the area of Camp Alma Veterans Legacy Camp, a former Lane County jail work-camp. The Oregon Department of Forestry confirmed that there are currently no structures of powerlines threatened. The latest update also shows no evacuation orders have been issued.
Shore Acres Volunteers
If you are a person that likes to visit the lights at shore acres every year, perhaps you would consider helping to set the scene with a little volunteer work. The park is looking for volunteers to help in its annual invasive ivy pull on August 18th. the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is setting aside the day to eradicate the weed from the gardens. They warn the terrain is somewhat uneven and there is a bit of walking involved. Participants must pack their own water and lunch. To sign up go to Oregon.gov/oprd.
Lane County Fair
The Lane County Fair opened last night to the sounds of Rap and R&B artist Lil Jon. The 5 day fair will feature musical shows from various genres including country music star and American Idol winner Scotty McCreary on Saturday night. This evening fair goers can hear Country great Sara Evans and tomorrow can rock out to Quiet Riot. Sunday the music closes with Sheila E. if you plan to attend the fair you will need to carry belongings in a clear plastic bag, but if you forget, the will have them for sale there for $5.