Council Approves Ordinance Extension; Tourism Dollars At Work; LRAPA Fine Options; Florence Accolades

Council Approves Ordinance Extension

Last night’s City Council Meeting saw the adoption of Ordinance number 7 series 2025, the extension of the system development charges reduced fees.  The ordinance, according to Public Works director, Mike Miller has been effective towards the increase in housing development over the past several years it has been in place.  Miller noted that the most recent year has had the greatest effect on housing.

“We had a big year this last year, again 20 homes in that sweet spot range allowed for those exemptions.”

The sweet spot range refers to homes in the 1200 to 1399 square feet.  To date the total number of exemptions allowed by the ordinance has been just over 855 thousand dollars dating back to 2018.  The council voted to approve the extension of the existing ordinance, however, councilor Sally Wantz affirmed that she would like to take a look at perhaps boosting the allowable percentages of discount offered after some study on the effect it would have on building.  The ordinance still allows for a waiver of all SDC fees on ADU’s that would be attached to a current water and sewer system.

Tourism Dollars At Work

The Oregon Tourism Commission, known as Travel Oregon, is awarding nearly $6.2 million to 65 projects across the state through its 2024-25 Competitive Grants Program. The initiative aims to expand access and inclusion in the visitor industry, supporting everything from adaptive trails to cultural heritage programs. One highlight: the expansion of David’s Chair, a Medford-based nonprofit that provides free use of all-terrain electric chairs to people with mobility challenges. A recent grant supports placing more of these chairs along the coast, including one already in Florence. Operations Manager Jeff Kallevig says it started after a Florence visit drew strong local interest and donations. The chair is now available for public use via davidschair.org, with 72 hours’ notice.

LRAPA Fine Options

The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency has reopened its Supplemental Environmental Project program, giving air quality violators the option to direct fines toward local environmental projects. With pre-approved proposals in place, violators can fund initiatives like clean energy, habitat restoration, or other community-based solutions—rather than simply paying a penalty. LRAPA’s Matt Sorensen says the program focuses less on punishment and more on creative ways to improve community health. Projects must be based in Lane County, and groups are encouraged to apply now for pre-approval at lrapa-or.gov.

Florence Accolades

Florence is once again getting noticed beyond the coast. WorldAtlas has named it one of Oregon’s most charming small towns—joining the likes of Ashland, Cannon Beach, and Sisters. While locals already know what makes this place special, national attention highlights just how unique Florence is. From OHV riders scaling the dunes to artists, retirees, and families who call it home, Florence is gaining a reputation as both a travel destination and a community worth celebrating. Recognition like this doesn’t just bring tourists—and strengthen our economic base, it reminds us why we stay.