Hoyle on Health Care Coverage Prices
Fourth District Representative Val Hoyle says while the House has passed its portion of the bill to reopen the government, much of the work remains undone. In a press conference yesterday, Hoyle called rising health care costs one of the gravest issues facing Oregonians. She said during a recent town hall with nearly 14,000 participants, constituents shared alarming premium hikes—from $87 to over $1,000 a month, and in another case, from $1,300 to more than $3,200 for high-deductible plans.
“When people are uninsured, we all end up paying, so this is something worth fighting for.”
Hoyle says she and her staff continue to show up and serve constituents, even as her team remains unpaid during the shutdown.
Yard Debris Collection
The City of Florence will host its monthly Yard Debris Disposal event this Saturday, October 18th, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Public Works facility. The program offers residents a safe way to dispose of grass clippings, leaves, and brush. New pricing is now in effect — $18 for a standard pickup or small utility trailer, $23 for medium trailers up to 12 feet, and $28 for large trailers up to 18 feet or over 20 cubic yards, plus $12 for each additional cubic yard. More details are available at ci.florence.or.us
Master Gardener Classes
Oregon State University Extension in Lane County is recruiting volunteers for its 2026 Master Gardener training, which begins in January. Participants receive about 40 hours of instruction in sustainable, science-based gardening topics including botany, soils, pest management, and plant propagation, followed by 40 hours of volunteer service assisting the public through plant clinics and community events. Applications are available at extension.oregonstate.edu/lane, The deadline to apply is November 15th.
Halloween Safety
With Halloween approaching, the City of Florence is reminding families to stay safe on October 31st. Parents are urged to accompany children under 12, use crosswalks, and make sure kids wear bright or reflective costumes. Officials also suggest using face paint instead of masks and carrying flashlights or glow sticks to help trick-or-treaters be seen. Drivers should slow down, avoid distractions, and watch for children between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m.—the busiest time for trick-or-treating.
