Hoyle to Hold Town Hall
Representative Val Hoyle is hosting two townhalls in Lane County on Wednesday, March 19. The first takes place in Florence at noon at the Florence Event Center, and the second will be in Springfield at 5:30 PM. Hoyle will be joined by Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United, to discuss federal updates and policy concerns. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions. Doors open at 11 AM for the Florence event.
Filing Deadline For Special District Elections
The deadline for filing for one of the several positions open on local special district boards is coming quickly. Declarations of candidacy or nominating petitions for the May 21st Special Districts Election must be received at the Lane County Elections Department by five PM, this Thursday. Several positions that will be on the ballot are still lacking candidates. However, following last week’s board meeting of the Siuslaw School District in which the board opted to adopt a controversial book in the high school library, at least two of the three races for directors will be contested. Long time board member John Barnett has drawn an opponent in Zone 2. The Real Estate Broker is being challenged by Adrian Pollut, a self-employed private music instructor. Kady Sneddon, the position 4 director is not seeking reelection but there are two challengers vying for that open spot. Title and Escrow officer Maygun Hiatt will face Homemaker Tom Posegate. Maureen Miltonberger who has served as Vice Chair for the past three years is so far unopposed for position 6.
Scotch Broom
Scotch broom, an invasive shrub native to Europe, has become a significant problem along the Oregon Coast. Introduced in the 1850s, it was initially used for ornamental purposes and erosion control. However, it has since spread aggressively, forming dense thickets that outcompete native vegetation and hinder reforestation efforts. Each plant can produce over 12,000 seeds annually, with seeds remaining viable for up to 30 years, making control challenging. The Oregon Department of Agriculture estimates that Scotch broom infestations cost the state over $40 million annually in lost timber revenue and control expenses. Additionally, the plant’s flammability increases wildfire risks, posing threats to both ecosystems and communities. Efforts to manage this invasive species are ongoing, with organizations like the Oregon Dunes Restoration Collaborative organizing volunteer events to remove Scotch broom and restore native habitats. Volunteers are needed this Saturday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Oregon Dunes Day Use Area, midway between Florence and Reedsport. After stormy weather forced last week’s cancellation, organizers are hopeful for better conditions. This family-friendly event invites participants of all ages to bring work gloves, water, and tools such as shovels or hand saws. If you don’t have tools, ODRC will provide them. Day-use fees are waived for volunteers, and those attending should dress for the weather. If severe weather is predicted, check the Save Oregon Dunes Facebook page for updates.
Yachats Arts and Crafts
Artisans from across the Pacific Northwest will gather in Yachats for the annual Arts & Crafts Fair on March 22 and 23, 2025. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday at The Yachats Commons, with the Friends of the Library hosting a book sale downstairs. Visitors can browse and purchase a wide range of handmade items, including jewelry, paintings, woodwork, leather crafts, sea glass art, and homemade apothecaries. Yachats Chamber director Nichole Lippincott describes the fair as a springtime favorite that brings together artists, vendors, and the community to celebrate creativity. She also encourages visitors to mark their calendars for the upcoming Sip & Stroll Yachats wine-tasting event on April 19, featuring Oregon wines and a chance to win a weekend getaway.
