Public Hearing Continues
A continued public hearing on proposed floodplain code changes will take place Monday, March 2 at 5:30 p.m. at Florence City Hall. The Florence City Council has spent more than six months reviewing amendments to the city’s Flood Damage Prevention code required under FEMA’s Pre-Implementation Compliance Measures, part of the National Flood Insurance Program’s effort to better protect habitat and comply with the Endangered Species Act in Oregon. The changes, aimed at achieving a “no net loss” of floodplain functions, would guide how development is reviewed in flood-prone areas to protect fish habitat and sensitive riparian zones — a federal requirement tied to flood insurance eligibility. Florence defaulted to a permit-by-permit approach after a December 1 deadline passed without locally adopted code, and since late 2024 the council and Planning Commission have held a series of hearings, workshops and continuations as public comment has been taken and draft language refined. The hearing comes amid broader state and federal processes, including FEMA’s draft Environmental Impact Statement and implementation plan for NFIP-ESA integration — a process that has drawn public comment and, in some cases, legal challenge over how habitat protections should be applied statewide. Residents may testify in person or via the city’s online options as the council deliberates next steps and potential adoption after the record closes on March 2.
Publc Health Division Manager Chosen
Lane County has named a new Public Health Division Manager. Long-time public health leader and current deputy manager Brian K. Johnson will step into the role beginning March 5. He will report to Lane County Health and Human Services Assistant Director Kachina Inman. Johnson brings more than 28 years of public health experience and has spent 21 years with Lane County Public Health. As deputy manager, he oversaw a $32 million budget and 76 employees. County officials say his leadership and experience guiding efforts during COVID-19 and other public health emergencies make him well-suited for the position.
Committee Members Sought
The Oregon Health Authority is seeking applicants to serve on the state’s Oversight and Accountability Council, created by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The council advises OHA on grant funding tied to drug treatment and recovery services under Oregon law. Members serve 4-year terms and may be eligible for a stipend for time spent on official council duties. OHA is currently seeking an academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy, and a representative of a coordinated care organization. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on March 15, 2026, with appointments expected to be announced by March 31.
