Miller to Hang Up His Safety Vest
Mike Miller, Director of Public Works for the City of Florence, has announced his retirement effective September 26th, 2025. Miller has served more than 18 years with the City, and nearly 41 years in public works overall. During his time in Florence, he oversaw many major projects including the Public Works Operations Center, improvements along Rhododendron Drive and Rolling Dunes Park, the completion of the Siuslaw Estuary Trail, and upgrades at Miller Park, Singing Pines Dog Park, and the Exploding Whale Memorial Park. He also played a key role in ReVision Florence, the FloGro stormwater program, and securing Safe Routes to School and transportation grants. Miller says while the projects were meaningful, he will remember most the people he worked alongside, and looks forward to spending more time with family and exploring Oregon’s backroads in retirement. Miller recounts his service in the community on this week’s Our Town.
Search Suspended
The Coast Guard has suspended its search for two men missing after a 26-foot catamaran capsized Sunday night about four miles off Gold Beach. A third person was rescued and taken to shore by a good Samaritan. Crews from Station Chetco River, Air Station North Bend, and Humboldt Bay joined the search, covering more than 75 square nautical miles. Despite extensive efforts, the missing men were not found. Coast Guard officials called it a tragic situation, extending condolences to the families.
Pet Clean Up
The City of Florence is reminding residents about local animal codes under Title 6, Chapter 6. Pet owners must immediately clean up after their dogs, and dogs must remain under control in public—on a leash, harness, or within a fenced yard. The only off-leash area is the dog park on Kingwood Street. Barking and biting dogs fall under nuisance codes, with progressive fines starting at $50 and dog bites often carrying a $750 penalty. Feeding wild animals is also prohibited, with the exception of small birds in proper feeders.
Boil Water Notice
A boil water notice for parts of Mapleton is still in effect, but officials hope that results from testing will be in soon. Parts of the system had to be shut down on Friday for some repairs. The outage was necessary to facilitate the installation of some infrastructure ahead of an upcoming culvert replacement.