City Council/EMAC
The Florence City Council and the Environmental Management Advisory Committee will meet tomorrow morning for a joint work session to review a draft solid waste rate report prepared by Bell and Associates. The discussion follows an EMAC meeting this afternoon at 3:00, where members will review current rates and consider possible changes. An executive session is scheduled for around 9:30 a.m. to discuss exempt financial records related to solid waste haulers. Following that, the council may continue discussions on rates or move into a separate work session focused on a proposed resolution supporting education in the community. No formal action will be taken during the session.
Gas Prices
Gas prices are climbing sharply as tensions in the Middle East continue to drive up crude oil costs. AAA says the national average for regular gas rose 12 cents this week to $4.14 a gallon, while Oregon gained 7 cents to $5.00, the highest statewide average since October 2022. Crude oil has surged above $100 a barrel, pushed higher by conflict involving Iran, damage to energy infrastructure, and ongoing concerns over the Strait of Hormuz. In Florence, some stations are now posting prices as high as $4.79 a gallon.
Recycling Competition Comes to Completion
Siuslaw and Mapleton School Districts are taking part in a county-wide electronics recycling competition that’s now entering its final weeks. The effort, organized by Lane County schools, NextStep Recycling, and Waste Wise Lane County, runs through April 24 during Earth Week. Schools collecting the most e-waste can win grants of up to $500, along with gift certificates and recognition awards. Community members can support their local school by dropping off items at the NextStep Donation Center and naming the school they wish to credit. Accepted items include TVs, computers, cell phones, and other electronics—working or not—but no non-electronic materials.
