Floodplain Management
The City of Florence is updating its floodplain management code to comply with FEMA’s new model code, required by July under the Endangered Species Act and related legal settlements. A special meeting will be held Tuesday, May 20th at 5:30 PM at the Florence Events Center to inform the public, answer questions, and take comments. The update may affect around 200 properties along the Siuslaw River floodplain. Affected property owners should have received a mailer with more details. Residents of areas like Munsel Creek—expected to be mapped into the floodplain by 2027—are also encouraged to attend. More information is available on the city’s website.
Tourist Season Begins
Florence is bracing for more than 35,000 visitors this weekend as the city hosts the annual Rhododendron Festival. But that’s just the beginning—AAA projects a record 45.1 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more over Memorial Day weekend, up 3.1% from last year. About 617,000 Oregonians are expected to travel, with 506,000 hitting the road—setting a new car travel record. Florence drivers will see gas prices nearly 50 cents lower than last year. Coastal towns like Florence remain top regional destinations for AAA Oregon members. It’s shaping up to be the busiest start to summer in nearly two decades.
Return Your Ballots
Lane County voters are urged to return their ballots as early as possible to ensure they’re counted in the May 21st election. Ballots must be postmarked by May 20th and received by May 27th if mailed, or returned to a 24/7 drop box or the Lane County Elections Office by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Acting County Clerk Lorren Blythe reminds voters to sign their return envelopes—signatures are verified to confirm identity. Unsigned or mismatched ballots can be corrected up to 21 days after the election. More info is available from Lane County Elections.
Crash Reporting
Reporting a car crash in Oregon just got easier. The Oregon DMV has launched a new online service at DMV2U.oregon.gov, allowing drivers to submit their required collision report digitally—no more mailing, faxing, or office visits. The form can be saved and edited for up to 30 days. Drivers must file within 72 hours if there’s injury, a vehicle is towed, or damages exceed $2,500. DMV says the online tool will save time and improve safety planning statewide. A confirmation email and reference number are sent upon submission.
Lutheran Church Marks 75th Anniversary
New Life Lutheran Church in Florence is marking its 75th anniversary not with a party, but with purpose. Instead of celebrating with food trucks or fancy catering, the congregation is donating $7,500—$5,000 as a challenge grant to Florence Food Share and $2,500 to Bright Beginnings Preschool. Pastor Jennifer Yocum says the gifts reflect the church’s long history of community service. The preschool will use its portion to start a scholarship fund, while New Life hopes the community will match the Food Share challenge by June 25th to maximize its impact.
