FURA Meeting
The Florence Urban Renewal Agency meets Wednesday, June 24th at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall and online, with several financial updates leading the agenda. Agency directors will first consider approval of the meeting agenda and take public comment before moving into action items. The only action item is approval of minutes from the May 27th meeting. Most of the evening will focus on reports, including a presentation from independent auditors on the agency’s 2024 audited financial statements, along with formal acceptance of that report. Directors will also review the latest quarterly financial report covering activity through March 31st, 2026. The meeting wraps up with a report from the city manager. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom, with opportunities for both written and verbal comment.
Kite Fest
The giant kites are back over Florence starting today. The four-day Kite Fest at Driftwood Shores runs June 22 through June 25 on Heceta Beach, featuring more than 60 giant kites flown by professionals from around the region. This free community event also includes live music, local artisan vendors, food, and sand sled demonstrations from Sand Master Park. Nighttime glow kites will light up the sky after sunset. Shuttle service is available from Three Rivers Casino Resort. Organizers say activities run daily into the evening, weather permitting, giving families plenty of chances to enjoy one of the Oregon Coast’s most colorful summer traditions.
OCHS: Investing in Youth
Oregon Coast Humane Society recently visited Wildflower Montessori School in Florence, giving students a hands-on look at animal welfare and veterinary care. Executive Director Elizabeth Thompson and Dr. Janel Montes led interactive stations where students practiced bandaging, scanned for microchips, examined X-rays, and even conducted basic wellness checks. Morning students worked with adopted cats returning as special guests, while afternoon classes focused on kittens and their unique care needs. Thompson says the goal is to build empathy and responsibility through humane education. OCHS says programs like this help strengthen the human-animal bond and support a more compassionate community.