City Water Scores High
The City of Florence has released its 2025 Water Quality Report, showing the city’s drinking water continues to meet or exceed all state and federal standards. Florence has again earned an “Outstanding Performer” designation from the Oregon Health Authority, with no contamination violations, no significant deficiencies, and no waterborne disease outbreaks reported over the past six years. The report also highlights progress on the city’s new Well 14 project, which is expected to increase water capacity and improve system reliability once completed. The annual Consumer Confidence Report is available on the City of Florence website.
Utility Rate Increase
The Florence City Council has approved a utility rate increase that takes effect July 1. The adjustment covers water, wastewater, stormwater, street maintenance, and public safety fees. For the average residential customer using 700 cubic feet of water each month, the combined bill will increase by $7.31, or 5.4 percent, bringing the average monthly total to $142.94. Most utility charges will increase by 3 percent, while the street maintenance fee rises 10 percent and the public safety fee increases 20 percent. The new rates will appear on bills customers receive in early August.
Every Child Belongs Program
The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care says its Every Child Belongs program is now available statewide to licensed child care providers. The support system helps early childhood educators address behavioral, social, and emotional challenges and comes as a new state law takes effect July 1st banning suspensions and expulsions in early learning settings. Providers can receive free training, consultation, and crisis support when children need additional help or following traumatic events. State officials say the goal is to help more children remain in care and succeed in safe, supportive learning environments.
Insurance Fraud Ring
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is warning Oregonians about a multi-state fraud ring that has been signing people up for life insurance policies without their knowledge or consent. The scam primarily targets older adults. According to the agency, telemarketers gather personal information from victims and pass it along to licensed insurance agents, who then submit applications for life insurance policies without authorization. Insurance Commissioner TK Keen says the fraud is costing insurance companies millions in commissions and exposing victims to additional scams. State officials urge consumers to never share personal information with strangers and to regularly monitor financial accounts for suspicious activity.
