City Council Meeting; Women’s and Children’s Health Fair; Charter School Finance Committee; Humane Society Preparing for Holidays

City Council Meeting

The Florence City Council meets tonight, October 20th, at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, with the session streamed online. Councilors will continue a public hearing on the proposed right-of-way vacation tied to the Elm Park Planned Unit Development and consider two resolutions authorizing grant applications to the Oregon Department of Aviation — one for the airport’s Beacon and Lighted Wind Cone Replacement Project, and another for a Drainage Improvement Project. This evening’s agenda also includes proclamations recognizing National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Community Planning Month, along with a presentation from the Siuslaw School District’s Facilities Advisory Committee. The district is exploring plans to build a new school facility and will outline two separate proposals under consideration. Meeting materials and the full agenda are available at ci.florence.or.us/council.

Women’s and Children’s Health Fair

PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center will host the 2025 Women’s and Children’s Health Fair this Wednesday, October 22nd, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Siuslaw Middle School Commons. Themed “Every Stage, Every Story,” the event offers information and resources for women of all ages—from teens exploring birth control to moms navigating prenatal care and those managing menopause. Highlights include Doc Talks with Dr. McKenna and Dr. Penikas, local community resource booths, free swag bags, raffles, prizes, and a kids’ station. Admission is free.

Charter School Finance Committee

The Siuslaw Valley Charter School Finance Committee will meet Tuesday morning, October 21st, at 10 a.m. in the school’s administrative office at 524 Laurel Street in Florence, with an option to attend via Zoom. Committee members will review September financial reports, discuss a Treasury Bill investment proposal, and review the status of the RFP process and contract awards for the new school facility. The agenda also includes discussion on grade levels for the school’s opening and an overview of the Head of School and Superintendent hiring process.

Humane Society Preparing for Holidays

The Oregon Coast Humane Society is preparing to open its annual PAW-liday Store on November 1st at 1179 Bay Street, next to the OCHS Thrift Store. The seasonal shop will operate daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features donated holiday décor, vintage items, and gifts to raise funds for animal care. OCHS will also host Photos with Santa Paws and Mrs. Claws on November 22nd at Florence Shipping Solutions and November 30th at Mini Pet Mart, both from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The events are volunteer-run, with all proceeds benefiting the Oregon Coast Humane Society’s ongoing efforts to help local animals.