Florence Man Arrested
Lane County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a trespass and menacing report in the 5400 block of Bay Berry Drive in Florence on February 8th around 4 p.m. Authorities say 42-year-old Joshua Allen Cooper allegedly trespassed on a neighbor’s property with a rifle, threatened a homeowner, and later fired multiple rounds nearby. Deputies located Cooper at his residence and took him into custody without incident. Several firearms and air rifles were seized. He was booked into Lane County Jail on charges including Menacing, two counts of Criminal Trespass with a Firearm, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
New Well
The City of Florence is expanding its well field at Munsel Greenway Park with the construction of Well 14. The 80-acre property, home to the city’s water supply system, currently features 13 groundwater production wells. The addition of Well 14 will enhance water supply reliability, providing redundancy in case of maintenance or emergencies. The project, awarded to Holt Services, Inc., includes a 155-foot-deep well with a capacity of up to 300 gallons per minute. Construction begins in February with a service road, followed by drilling.
Listening Session
The University of Oregon’s Engaged Journalism class is hosting a Florence-Area Community Listening Session on Saturday, February 22, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Best Western Pier Point Inn. The event is part of the Florence-Area Civic Information Initiative, a collaboration between UO and local partners to assess and improve community news and information needs. Residents are encouraged to share their perspectives on how news is shared in Florence. All are welcome, and light refreshments will be provided.
Wine and Chowder
Florence’s annual Wine, Chowder, and Glass Float Trail is back February 14, 15-16, hosted by the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce. The weekend features the Great Glass Float Trail, where over 30 hand-blown floats are hidden around town, a wine tasting event at various establishements, and a Chowder Trail showcasing local flavors. Art lovers can enjoy the Taste of Art and Wine at the Florence Events Center. A free shuttle service will be available. For details, or to purchase advance tickets visit the Chamber’s website: florencechamber.com
