Planning Commission Meeting
The Florence Planning Commission will hold public hearings Tuesday, February 10, on two land-use applications. The first involves the Oregon Coast Humane Society at 2840 Rhododendron Drive. The request seeks approval of a conditional use permit to allow the continued temporary placement of an existing metal Connex storage container used for dry storage. City staff say the container supports shelter operations and qualifies as a temporary structure for a nonprofit use. Staff are recommending approval for a 1-year term, with a possible 1-year extension if progress is made toward a permanent storage solution. The second application concerns Heceta Beach County Park at 88480 1st Avenue. Lane County is proposing to remove the existing vault restroom and replace it with a new prefabricated, code-compliant restroom building. The project also includes ADA parking upgrades, pedestrian sidewalk improvements, lighting, and utility connections. According to staff, the project improves accessibility and safety without expanding park use or footprint. In both cases, staff are recommending approval, and no public testimony had been received at the time the reports were prepared.
Gas Prices
Gas prices in Florence jumped another 10 cents over the weekend, pushing the average cost of a gallon of regular to about $3.29 — a 36-cent increase in just over a week. Local drivers are feeling the pinch as winter demand stays strong heading into spring. Across Oregon, the state average for regular gas sits near $3.55 a gallon, up from about $3.46 just a week ago according to AAA price tracking, and noticeably above the national average of around $2.90. Energy markets show crude oil prices holding in the low-to-mid $60 per barrel range for West Texas Intermediate and slightly higher for Brent, with recent geopolitical tensions and U.S. inventory changes contributing to upward pressure. That combination of higher crude costs and seasonal refinery transitions is keeping pump prices elevated across the region.
Federal Monies Promised to Region
Congresswoman Val Hoyle announced more than $16.6 million in federal funding for community projects across Oregon’s 4th Congressional District, with several projects slated for Lane County. Among the funded projects, $1 million is headed to Lane County to strengthen its fire radio network, improving emergency communications for firefighters and first responders. The Mapleton Water District will receive $675,000 to extend the service life of its water storage tanks, helping maintain reliable water infrastructure for the community. The City of Florence is set to receive $250,000 to stabilize a landslide along the Siuslaw River and repair damaged stormwater infrastructure, addressing ongoing erosion and drainage concerns. According to Hoyle’s office, the funding supports public safety, infrastructure, and community resilience projects, with money expected to translate into on-the-ground improvements once final federal approvals are complete.
