MAT Town Hall Meeting
At a town hall meeting last night, Lane County outlined plans for a proposed medical treatment facility at 4480 Highway 101, the site of a former medical clinic now owned by the county. Jason Davis, the Lane County Public Health liaison, along with members of the MAT team, explained the intended use of the facility before opening the meeting to public comment. Community members asked who would receive services, whether the clinic could attract patients from outside the area, and why the location was chosen so close to Wildflower Montessori School. The audience appeared divided, with much of the opposition coming from families connected to the school, citing concerns about enrollment impacts and the need for a county waiver. Several speakers expressed frustration over late notification, with some saying they were unaware the property had already been purchased. County officials said the project is still in its early stages, acknowledged not getting ahead of community concerns, and emphasized that more meetings are planned. After a 2-hour discussion, the meeting was adjourned, with county officials promising transparency and continued dialogue.
Senator Wyden to Visit
Senator Ron Wyden will be in town this evening. A town hall to discuss events in Washington that affect Oregon will be the general topic this evening. Wyden says concerns over tariffs and how they are negatively effecting Oregonians is a key talking point. The Town Hall meeting will be held at Siuslaw Middle School beginning at 5pm
End-of-Life Wishes
Experts say the start of the year is an ideal time to talk about end-of-life wishes, even though it’s a conversation many people avoid. Research shows only about one in three adults has completed advance directives or similar paperwork. Meagan Williams, manager of clinical education for the nonprofit Compassion and Choices, says many people delay those discussions until a crisis. She encourages anyone over 18 to start the conversation early, noting accidents or sudden illness can leave people unable to make their own decisions. Williams says completing the paperwork is important, but the conversations it sparks with loved ones are just as valuable, helping families feel confident and supported when decisions need to be made.
Gas Prices
Gas prices were mostly steady over the past week, with 45 states seeing pump prices change by 5 cents or less. Higher crude oil prices have kept the national average from falling, though prices in Oregon and across the West Coast continue to inch lower. The national average for regular gas remains at $2.82 a gallon, while Oregon’s average slipped 2 cents to $3.33, both at their lowest levels in nearly 5 years. According to AAA Oregon/Idaho’s Marie Dodds, crude oil around $60 a barrel is adding pressure ahead of seasonal increases, including California’s switch to summer-blend fuel. Locally, the average price for gas in Florence is $2.85 a gallon.
