Homeless Count
From early this morning through 7pm tomorrow evening Lane County Human Services will be conducting a count of those who are experiencing homelessness. The annual Point in Time count is mandatory bi-annual account by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The survey will cover shelters, transitional housing, encampments and those utilizing food pantries as well as those who are sleeping in tents, cars or other outdoor spaces not intended as housing. Kate Budd is the Lane County Human Services division manager and says the count is the best available data to try and gain a stronger understanding of homelessness in the county. according to Budd there will be an extra effort to make sure that youth homelessness is reflected in the count. Florence and other communities will be represented in the physical count of unsheltered. Names will be cross-referenced with individuals who had previously sought out services provided by service agencies.
Public Art
The public arts committee has announced that finalist for the Art Exposed additions to the ReVision Florence street scape will be made at their meeting on February 15th at City Hall at 5:30. The public is encouraged to attend and to offer comment. All information about the program can be found at the city’s website at ci.florence.or.us.
Gas Prices
The national average for a gallon of regular gas increased around the country this past week, but Oregon is still seeing a decrease overall with a two cent drop to $3.62. however the price in Florence does not reflect that decrease. Over the past week Florence has seen prices range from $2.83 on average to $2.95 a gallon. Increase in prices along the coast may be somewhat reflective of the issues surrounding delivery after the storm that closed highways that serve the Florence area. Marie Dodds with AAA Oregon says prices generally fluctuate this time of year before starting their climb for the spring and summer driving seasons. She say crude oil prices, middle east conflicts, and positive economic news in the states are all having an effect on prices.
Wine, Chowder and Glass Float Trail
Florence is gearing up for the annual Wine, Chowder and Glass Float trail. The event brings tourism to the area in the generally slow tourism months for a boost to local businesses. This year the event will be on February 16, 17 and 18. While the event is intended to boost tourism, locals are also encouraged to participate. Several wineries will be represented along with a handful of businesses that will be serving up chowder. Information on the specifics of the event, including the hunt for the coveted glass floats can be found at wineandchowdertrail.com.
