Ballots Due Today
Today is the final day for voters to return their ballots in Oregon’s May Primary Election. Ballots must be postmarked by midnight tonight or dropped off at an official ballot drop site before 8 p.m. Locally, voters can return ballots at the secure drop box located at the Lane County Justice Center in Florence. Two major issues have drawn significant attention from voters this election cycle. One of the highest-profile statewide measures is Measure 120, a veto referendum that asks voters whether to uphold or reject transportation tax and fee increases previously approved by the Oregon Legislature under House Bill 3991. The measure would increase Oregon’s gas tax from 40 cents to 46 cents per gallon, raise vehicle registration and title fees, and increase a payroll tax that helps fund public transit. A “yes” vote on Measure 120 would keep the tax and fee increases in place, while a “no” vote would repeal them, including the gas tax increase. Supporters of the measure say the additional revenue is needed to address transportation infrastructure and transit funding statewide. Opponents argue Oregonians are already facing high living costs and should not see additional taxes and fees.
Locally, voters are also weighing Measure 379, the proposed 139-million-dollar bond for a new Siuslaw High School. The measure has sparked strong opinions on both sides of the debate. Supporters say the current high school, built in the 1970s, faces significant infrastructure challenges, including the need for seismic upgrades, a new HVAC system, and plumbing repairs. They also argue a new facility would improve student safety and modernize the learning environment for future generations. Opponents contend many of the school’s issues involve repairs and maintenance that they believe should have been addressed following two previous failed bond attempts. Concerns have also focused on the financial impact to taxpayers. Some critics have claimed the measure could increase property taxes by as much as 29 percent, while estimates based on current and projected tax rates place the average increase between 11 and 13 percent if the bond is approved. Election officials are reminding voters that mailed ballots should be taken directly to a post office to ensure they receive today’s postmark, and ballots not postmarked by midnight will not be counted.
Float Winners
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce has wrapped up the 119th annual Rhododendron Festival, announcing winners from Sunday’s Grand Floral Parade. Top honors went to Florence Elks Lodge #1858, earning both Grand Floral Champion and Non-Commercial Winner. Three Rivers Casino Resort took the Commercial Award, Comunidad Latina was named top Equestrian entry, and the “Crimson Sound” from Conestoga Middle School earned the Band Award. Festival organizers say the four-day event brought thousands of visitors to Florence for parades, carnival rides, and community celebrations. Planning is already underway for the 120th Rhododendron Festival in 2027, which opens May 8th with coronation events at the Florence Events Center.
