Education Land to be Studied for Future Development
The future of ten acres of undeveloped land behind Lane Community College’s Florence campus continues to generate community discussion. Some residents want to preserve the green space, while others see an opportunity to address Florence’s workforce housing shortage. City Manager Erin Reynolds says the property, donated to LCC in the early 1970s for educational purposes, is currently zoned high-density residential. But she emphasizes there are no development plans in place.
“Importantly, no land sale, development approval, deed modification or commitment to any specific use is being proposed by the city or LCC.”
City and state representatives are presenting an opportunity for preliminary site analysis to LCC’s board, at no cost to the college or city. Reynolds says the goal is to explore possibilities, not dictate an outcome.
“These conversations are important to be having right now to simply gather information and understand what’s possible before any future considerations can be made.”
The property remains under LCC ownership, and any potential development would require further discussions with the college and opportunities for community input.
Election Day
Today is Election Day, and Florence-area voters have until 8 o’clock tonight to return their ballots to the Florence Justice Center. Locally, voters will decide four City Council seats and the mayor’s race, along with a levy continuation to support Siuslaw-area emergency medical services. Congressional District Four voters will choose between incumbent Val Hoyle, Monique DeSpain and Justin Filip, while State House District Nine features Claire Lynn and John Ezra Scheirman. Statewide races include governor and U.S. Senate. Voters are reminded to sign their ballot envelopes before returning them. Initial unofficial results are expected shortly after 8 tonight.
Oregon Community Foundation Grants
The Oregon Community Foundation is preparing to accept applications for its 2027 Spring Community Grants Program. Nonprofit organizations can apply beginning November 17th, with a deadline of December 15th. The foundation has posted funding priorities, eligibility requirements, application questions and review criteria on its website to help organizations prepare. Prerecorded informational videos are also available, along with an upcoming virtual session where regional program officers will answer questions about the application process. Nonprofits are encouraged to review the guidelines ahead of the application window. Additional information is available through the Oregon Community Foundation’s Community Grants webpage.
Dolin Picked for Yachats Chamber Lead
The Yachats Area Chamber of Commerce has unanimously selected Jesse Dolin as its next Executive Director. Dolin, a Yachats resident, brings more than 15 years of experience in coastal tourism, economic development and small business support. Since 2018, he has served as Destination Manager for the Oregon Coast Visitors Association. Dolin previously helped launch Florence’s first economic development strategy and served as a small business advisor. He begins December first and will work alongside outgoing director Nichole Lippencott through December 15th. The community can welcome Dolin during the Yachats Winter Festival, December 5th and 6th.
