First Step Florence Alive and Well
A local nonprofit is clarifying misinformation published this week in the Siuslaw News. A letter to the editor in Wednesday’s paper discussing homelessness in Florence mistakenly stated that First Step Florence had closed due to mismanagement. The letter, written by Lioba Multer, appears to have confused First Step Florence with the Bridges program, which shut down last July after losing funding and management staff. Norma Wood with First Step Florence told Coast Radio the organization is very much alive and continuing its mission, noting that no nonprofit wants to be associated with inaccurate claims of closure or mismanagement. First Step Florence is the only transitional housing program in the Florence area, providing safe, stable housing along with job placement, budgeting guidance, and financial planning. The nonprofit has helped more than 50 families move beyond housing insecurity and continues to serve local families in need.
Rhododendron Festival Theme
The Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians will play a central role in the 2026 Rhododendron Festival. Festival organizers announced the tribes will provide the official theme and logo and will also serve as Grand Marshal. Florence Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bettina Hannigan said the collaboration is long overdue and praised tribal leadership for sharing their culture and creativity. The theme, presented in the Siuslaw language, translates to “A Gathering with A Good Heart.” The logo was designed by tribal member Dylan Brainard, who said the artwork reflects connection, balance, and shared community values. The festival is the 3 weekend in May
Referendum For May Ballot
The Oregon Elections Division has received a draft ballot title for Referendum Petition 2026-302, a proposed veto referendum that would challenge recent increases to fuel taxes, vehicle registration and title fees, and the payroll tax used for public transportation services. Chief petitioners include Bruce Starr of Dundee, Ed Diehl of Scio, and Jason Williams of Beaverton. Written comments on the legal sufficiency of the draft ballot title must be received by the Elections Division by 5 p.m. on January 30th. State officials confirm the referendum is heading to Oregon voters as part of the May 19th ballot. Voters will decide whether to uphold or repeal the transportation tax and fee increases.
