Tax Season
If you’re not looking forward to tax season, there are a few steps you can take as 2024 comes to an end that will make filing your 2025 return easier. Megan Denison with the Oregon Department of Revenue says most people don’t think about their taxes until it’s time to begin filling out their returns. Something as simple as going online at the agency’s website… Oregon.gov/DOR… and log on to your account or set up a new account if you’re a first-time filer. Make sure your name, address, and other contact information is correct and updated. Another step is to begin setting aside the forms and records you’ll need right now as you receive them. If you have a job, you’ll be getting a W-2. There are other forms coming in the mail if you have a mortgage on your home, if you have individual health insurance, or if you receive income from another job or investments. Denison adds that the Department of Revenue website is also a good resource to help you complete and file your own returns or find someone to help you. A pair of final recommendations: Try not to wait until the last minute to file and, if you’re getting a refund consider having it deposited into your checking account.
State of the County
The annual “State of the County” address for Lane County is just two weeks away. Board of Commissioners Chair Laurie Trieger says she intends to share progress made in the past year, while focusing on innovation, collaboration with community partners, and transformative initiatives helping Lane County government improve lives. Ceremonial swearings-in will be held for re-elected sheriff Cliff Harrold along with the newly elected District Attorney Chris Parosa. Trieger and fellow commissioner Pat Far, both recently re-elected, will also be sworn in. The ceremony is at ten AM, Monday January 6th at Harris Hall in the County Courthouse at 125 E 8th Avenue in Eugene. Community members are encouraged to attend in person, or you can watch live online at Lane County OR dot Gov slash webcasts.
Tree Pickup
Fire safety is especially important this time of year, as dried-out Christmas trees can pose a serious risk. According to the National Fire Protection Association, firefighters respond to an average of 155 home fires annually caused by dry trees, resulting in at least four fatalities and over $15 million in property damage. To help residents safely dispose of their trees, the Siuslaw Valley Firefighters Association will offer post-Christmas tree pickup services on Saturday, December 28th, and again on Saturday, January 4th. To schedule a pickup, call Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority at 541-997-3212 during business hours. A minimum $5 donation is encouraged, with proceeds supporting their scholarship fund. Collected trees will be ground, recycled, and turned into mulch as part of the City of Florence’s Flo-Gro program.