Council Adjusts Zoning in Ordinance 4
A proposed zoning change in Florence’s Old Town drew public concern but ultimately received unanimous City Council approval. During a hearing on Ordinance 4, Series 2025, resident Dina Pavlis supported the idea of development but opposed changing the zoning from commercial mixed-use to residential without an approved plan in place. The proposed change affects properties with a Shoreland Residential Overlay, including the building formerly home to the Lotus restaurant, which has been vacant for over 20 years. Pavlis cited the city’s comprehensive plan, which emphasizes protecting key scenic views of the Siuslaw River, bridge, and dunes. While her concerns were not dismissed, council discussion clarified that any future development on the property would still require full approval through the city’s review process. Council members also noted that preserving scenic view corridors remains a priority in future planning decisions.
Committee Openings
The City of Florence is inviting community members to get involved and help shape the future of the city. Vacancies are now open on several Boards, Committees, and Commissions, with new terms beginning June 1, 2025. Openings include the Planning Commission, Florence Urban Renewal Agency, Environmental Management Advisory Committee, Public Arts Committee, and Transportation Committee.These groups provide critical input, conduct research, and assist in decision-making for city policies and initiatives. Appointments are approved by the Mayor and City Council. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 9, 2025. Applications are available online at ci.florence.or.us or by contacting City Recorder Lindsey White.
MUPTE Exemption Granted
The Florence City Council has approved a 10-year property tax exemption for a new affordable housing project near the Justice Center. The exemption, granted through the city’s Multi-Unit Property Tax Exemption program, supports the development of the Elm Park Apartments by Our Coastal Village. The project includes 32 units across five buildings—six one-bedroom, 16 two-bedroom, and 10 three-bedroom apartments—and will also feature a 5,000-square-foot early learning center with Head Start classrooms and community childcare. The apartments are reserved for households earning 60% or less of Lane County’s area median income and were awarded over $11 million in LIFT funding by Oregon Housing and Community Services. Additional features include recreation space, public art, EV-ready parking, and amenities like washers, dryers, and bike storage. The council’s decision follows previous Planning Commission approval and supports the city’s efforts to expand affordable housing and child care services in Florence. Construction is set to begin this summer.
Siuslaw School Health Cirriculum
The Siuslaw School District is opening a public review period for proposed Health curriculum materials for 2025 through 2032. Resources for all grade levels will be available for review at the district office on Oak Street, weekdays from 9 to 5, now through May 9th. The selections include updated editions of The Great Body Shop for elementary, and Comprehensive Health Skills for middle and high school. A supplemental program, Wayfinder, is also under review.
Charter School Meeting
The Siuslaw Valley Charter School has released two key documents ahead of its Special Board of Directors Meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 10th at 4 p.m. at the school’s office on Laurel Street and online via Zoom. The first outlines high-level goals for the Business Manager, including school planning, marketing, and budgeting. The second details protocols for recruiting and hiring licensed and classified staff, from posting jobs to onboarding new employees. Details and access to the meeting are available at siuslawvalleycharterschool.com.
