Increased Patrols
The Florence Police Department, along with Lane County Sheriff’s deputies and Oregon State Police, are increasing patrols over the Labor Day weekend. Officers will be watching closely for drivers and passengers not using seatbelts or child restraints, while also enforcing speeding and distracted driving laws. The campaign is part of a statewide traffic safety effort funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Authorities say proper seatbelt and child safety seat use remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries or fatalities on Oregon roadways.
Veneta Fire Under Control
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office says the Pickens Fire near Veneta is now under control after burning about 15 acres Thursday afternoon. The fire was reported around three o’clock east of Central Road, south of Fern Ridge Reservoir. Crews quickly stopped its forward spread and remained on scene through the night to patrol for hot spots. Evacuations that were briefly raised to Level 3 “Go Now” were reduced to Level 1 “Be Ready” by evening, and residents were allowed back home. Early indications suggest the fire may have been human-caused, though the investigation continues.
Sheriffs Ask For Clarification
“Here’s the latest from Oregon law enforcement: Yesterday, the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association submitted a letter—signed by 34 of the state’s 36 sheriffs—to the U.S. and Oregon Attorneys General. They’re asking for clear guidance on how to handle federal immigration subpoenas—especially when these subpoenas conflict with Oregon’s sanctuary law. Lane County Sheriff’s Office appears to be among the 34 signers. At issue is whether local agencies can legally share parole-related records of undocumented individuals convicted of serious crimes. The letter emphasizes growing legal uncertainty and calls for a court decision to help sheriffs navigate conflicting state and federal laws.”
National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month—a reminder to plan ahead for disasters that can strike without warning. Officials urge Oregonians to be ready to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks in case of wildfires, storms, floods, or landslides. For coastal residents, the goal is to be “4 Weeks Cascadia Ready” in the event of a major earthquake. That means stocking food, water, medical and sanitation supplies, and other essentials to sustain your household. Authorities also recommend knowing evacuation routes, signing up for local emergency alerts, making a family emergency plan, and updating your emergency kit.
City Offices Closed For Labor Day
Florence city offices will be closed Monday in observance of the Labor Day holiday. That includes City Hall and other non-essential services. Emergency services, including police and fire, will remain available as usual. Normal business hours for city offices will resume on Tuesday.
Mapleton Water Outage
The Mapleton Water District is advising customers in the northern two-thirds of the district to expect a water outage of up to five hours today. The service interruption is needed to install infrastructure ahead of the Riverview Avenue culvert replacement project. Customers who lose water pressure during the outage will be under a boil water notice once service is restored, expected to last until at least the middle of next week. The district will notify residents when testing confirms the water is safe to drink. The outage ties into a Lane County project replacing the failed culvert that has blocked Riverview Avenue for several years.
