Legislature to Consider TRT Changes
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is sounding the alarm over two proposed bills in the Oregon Legislature that could have major consequences for the local tourism economy. House Bills 2977 and 3962 would either raise or redirect transient lodging taxes, revenue that Florence depends on to fund tourism-related infrastructure, marketing, and community events.
Bettina Hannigan, President and CEO of the Florence Chamber, warns that the changes would hit small, tourism-reliant communities like Florence the hardest. She says, “We rely on these lodging taxes to support local jobs, small businesses, and facilities like the Florence Events Center. We can’t afford to lose them.”
HB 2977 proposes an increase in the statewide lodging tax, which the Chamber says would make destinations like Florence less competitive. HB 3962 would allow local lodging taxes to be used for non-tourism purposes, risking future investments in rural communities.
The Chamber is urging residents to submit testimony opposing both bills, noting that even a short, personalized comment could help protect Florence’s economy. Hearings are already underway.
More information is available at FlorenceChamber.com.
Sandpines to Reopen
In 1992 when Sandpines Golf Links first opened it was hailed as “the best new public golf course in America”. It quickly gained a positive reputation among golfers in the Pacific Northwest. That’s why a recent ownership change resulting in a new name prompted some confusion. Many golfers and residents wondered why the name changed to Florence Golf Links. But, another ownership change just recently occurred, bringing another new name.
Audio Player“The name SandPines meant something to the community and it meant something to golfers. That’s something that we’ve consistently seen, everyone’s just being very excited to go back to the identity.”
Tara Bahl and her husband Andrew are the new owners. They visited Florence and didn’t ever want to leave.
Audio Player“It was just love at first sight the minute we walked down Bay Street for the first time, I think we were like, we can imagine our life here. Everyone has been so wonderful. I think once we visited Florence and we saw SandPines, and we saw the promise of SandPines, the decision was made.”
For Bahl, it’s not just the golf course that was the attraction. The restaurant is every much a part of the SandPines legacy as the golf course.
Audio Player“Andrew and I painted the walls ourselves to try and lighten up the restaurant space. We got new upholstery, new flooring, The view is incredible, it’s such an asset and we promise you the food and the alcohol is going to be great. We’re excited to get it open; we’re hoping by the end of May.”
They have hired a Food and Beverage Manager and a Chef who have been working on developing a menu.
Healthy Aging Seminar
Organizers are encouraging Florence-area residents to save the date for the upcoming Healthy Aging – Healthy Living Senior and Lifestyle Expo, happening Saturday, June 14th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Florence Events Center. Sponsored by PeaceHealth Peace Harbor and Oregon Pacific Bank, the free event offers access to local and regional experts on topics like healthcare, housing, veterans services, insurance, and recreation. Attendees can also enjoy art and cooking demos, plus discussions on mental health and financial planning.
Lane County Budget
Lane County has released its proposed 2025–2026 budget, addressing a $6.3 million structural deficit in the General Fund while aiming to preserve essential services. County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky says a careful, line-by-line approach is being used instead of broad cuts. Most of the county’s 34 funds are balanced, but the General Fund remains the most distressed due to one of the lowest property tax rates in Oregon. The proposal includes eliminating about 80 positions, most of which are currently vacant. The budget committee began review during a public hearing on May 6.
