Search for Boy Continues
Authorities are actively searching for 2-year-old Dane Paulsen, who disappeared Saturday afternoon from his home near Milepost 21 on Highway 229, north of Siletz, Oregon. Dane was last seen playing in the front yard and is known to be friendly, fearless, and drawn to water and vehicles, though he can
not swim. Search efforts have covered 382 acres and 283 miles, involving 88 certified search and rescue members, drones, K9 teams, divers, and community volunteers. Despite an earlier report of a suspicious vehicle and individual near the scene, investigators have determined they are no longer a point of interest. The Lincoln County Major Crime Team, FBI, and multiple law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search. Authorities stress that there is no current evidence of foul play and that Dane’s disappearance does not meet Amber Alert criteria. Anyone with relevant information should call the tip line at 541-265-0669.
OPRD Seeks Input
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is accepting public comments through April 1 on proposed rule updates for e-assisted bicycle use in state parks and along the ocean shore. The updates clarify e-bike definitions, designate permitted and restricted areas, and set safety guidelines. Virtual public hearings will be held on March 17 and March 26, with opportunities for public input. Final rule adoption is expected in July following approval by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission. More details and comment submission options are available on the Oregon Parks website.
Councilor Vote for Vacant Seat
The Florence City Council will meet this evening to deliberate, vote, and appoint a candidate to fill a vacant City Council seat after interviewing 11 applicants last Thursday. The selection process will be a key focus of the meeting. Councilors will also consider an agreement with Lane County for an EPA Community Change Grant to expand the Florence Senior and Activity Center. Additional agenda items include approval of meeting minutes, department updates, and reports from the City Manager and Council. More details and meeting materials are available on the City of Florence website. The council will meet at City Hall at 5:30
Planning Commission
The Florence Planning Commission will meet tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall to review the proposed four-story, 86-room Wyndham Microtel development at 750 Quince Street. The project, in collaboration with the Florence Urban Renewal Agency, will be discussed as part of a design review. Public testimony will be accepted in person, online, and in writing before the meeting. The agenda also includes planning updates and future commission meetings. Meeting materials and participation details are available on the City of Florence website.