Council Meeting
The Florence City Council meets Monday, August 4, at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall with a full agenda that includes a Farmers Market proclamation and employee recognition. A public hearing will be held regarding the proposed annexation and zoning of 4787 Oceana Drive, located within the Florence Urban Growth Boundary. The request, submitted by Teresa Stella and Jim James, would bring the property into city limits and apply Low-Density Residential zoning. Ordinances No. 10 and 11, Series 2025, will be considered for approval. On the consent agenda, Council will weigh the $69,500 purchase of a 2026 Ford Utility Hybrid Interceptor for the Police Department. They’ll also consider renewing a five-year body-worn camera contract with Axon, totaling more than $127,000 through 2030. In addition, a liquor license ownership transfer for Homegrown Public House & Brewery is up for recommendation, as Sunbreon LLC takes over operations at the Laurel Street location. Meeting materials and video links are available at ci.florence.or.us.
First Friday Reedsport
Reedsport’s First Friday Vendor Market and Music on Main is happening tonight from 5 to 8 p.m. in Old Town Reedsport. Over 18 vendors will line the streets with local art, jewelry, and more. Shops are staying open late, including Umpqua Trading Co. and the new Reedsport Outpost. Enjoy wine tasting at Mindpower Gallery starting at 4, and cocktails at the Hoaloha Tiki Room. Music on Main features guitarist Stephen Tattershall live at Two Shy Brewing. Pick up a punch card at the Reedsport Main Street booth to enter the free gift card giveaway.
Fire Restrictions
Wildfire danger continues to rise, and the Bureau of Land Management has enacted a Level II Fire Prevention Order for Northwest Oregon, effective today, August 1. The order bans campfires, charcoal grills, off-road driving, and spark-generating activities like chainsaw use. Smoking is restricted to cleared areas or inside vehicles. Motorized vehicles on BLM land must carry a shovel and water or a fire extinguisher. Violators face steep fines or jail time. The restrictions cover 720,000 acres from Columbia to northern Douglas County and remain in effect until further notice.
