Ballot Initiative For Dunes City
The Dunes City Council has approved a proposed ballot initiative that would make it easier for candidates to appear on future ballots. Currently, the city charter requires a petition signed by at least 20 registered voters within city limits. The proposal would allow candidates to either submit that petition or pay a 20-dollar filing fee, aligning with state election law. Officials say eligibility and residency verification would remain the same for both methods. The change aims to encourage participation, as the 2024 election saw only two candidates qualify for four open seats. City staff say the current petition process is time-consuming and costly, while the filing fee would help cover administrative work and streamline the process for future candidates.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness about an issue that affects millions of individuals and families, including right here on the Oregon Coast. Domestic violence takes many forms — physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse — and can impact anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. Advocates say recognizing the warning signs is key: controlling behavior, isolation from friends or family, intimidation, or destroying property. In Florence, Siuslaw Outreach Services provides local support and safe shelter for survivors of abuse. And remember — if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
Walktober
The City of Florence is joining the Lane Council of Governments and We Walk Lane for Walktober 2025 — a month-long celebration of walking in Lane County. Throughout October, enjoy guided and self-guided walks including art walks, nature walks, historical tours, and the popular Coffee Shop Hop. Locally, the Florence Public Arts and Transportation Committees, along with the Community and Economic Development Departments, invite you to the Art & The Estuary Walktober on Saturday, October 11th, from 11 to 2 at the Florence Events Center. Guided walks of the Siuslaw Estuary Trail and public art begin at 11:15, 12:15, and 1:15. Visit the Walktober webpage for details and a full list of events.
1 Deceased, 2 Critical (Florence Police press release)
Florence Police responded to a single-vehicle crash early this morning at 12:47 a.m. near 9th Street and Rhododendron Drive. Officers say three people were in the vehicle — two males and one female. One male was pronounced dead at the scene. The other two occupants were taken to Peace Harbor Hospital in serious condition and were later transferred to Riverbend in Eugene. Though names have been circulated on social media, Coast Radio is awaiting official confirmation from the Florence Police Department before releasing them.
Deportations Could Affect Jobs
As deportations rise in Oregon and across the nation, experts are underscoring the key role immigrants play in powering the state’s economy. Immigrants make up 10 percent of Oregon’s population but contribute 13 percent of its GDP — about 33 billion dollars. Alejandro Queral, executive director of the Oregon Center for Public Policy, says deportations don’t create jobs — they eliminate them, along with lowering wages. Research from the Economic Policy Institute estimates mass deportations could cost Oregon nearly 50,000 jobs. Queral adds that fear of deportation keeps workers from reporting unsafe conditions and wage theft, ultimately hurting both the workforce and the economy.
