Will Council Decide Fate of FLOCK?
This evening’s Florence City Council meeting could bring a decision on the City’s use of Flock Safety automatic license plate reader cameras, following weeks of public input and council discussion. The issue drew fresh attention over the weekend, with protestors lining Highway 101 on Saturday to oppose what they call a controversial surveillance tool. Tonight, councilors are expected to deliberate on whether to continue the program as-is, modify it, or discontinue it. Police Chief John Pitcher’s memo to council outlines several points under review, including how camera searches are audited, how data is retained, and who can access it. Florence Police currently retains images for 30 days, and the department says the system is limited to Oregon law enforcement agencies, with no sharing to federal or out-of-state agencies. The memo also notes potential state-level rules being developed in Salem that could set uniform limits on access and retention. The meeting begins at 5:30. Other agenda items include the annual evaluation and employment agreement amendments for City Manager Erin Reynolds, and a resolution related to immigration and non-enforcement policy.
Radio Auction
Coast Radio is gearing up for another radio auction, set for Friday, February 13. The private auction will feature more than 100 items, including furniture, gift baskets, dining packages, staycations, and more. Station officials say the auction allows local retailers to trade products for advertising, passing the savings directly on to listeners. Bidder numbers are available by calling the station during office hours or online at kcst.com or kcfmradio.com.
Coast Radio Moves to CBS News
Coast Radio has made a strategic change to its national news coverage, now airing a three-minute CBS News update at the top of each hour. Station officials say the move reflects the growing availability of national news across multiple platforms, including television, streaming, and mobile devices. CBS News is one of the nation’s longest-running and most widely recognized broadcast news organizations, providing concise national and international headlines. The shift allows Coast Radio to continue to place greater emphasis on local news, sports, weather, emergency information, and community updates, while still keeping listeners informed on major national stories.
Humane Society Pop-Up
The Oregon Coast Humane Society is raising funds for local animals with a Pop-Up Boutique fundraiser later this month in Florence. The temporary shop opens February 13 through 15 and again February 20 through 22 at the Vintage House next to the OCHS Thrift Store on Bay Street. Organizers say proceeds from the boutique help pay for food, shelter, and medical care for dogs and cats at the shelter, which relies on community support. The event also includes a pet food drive and optional pet photos during the first weekend, with donations going directly back to animal care.
