Seaplanes flying over Florence on Saturday June 15 were part of the Oregon Disaster Airlift Response Team’s (ODART) role-playing disaster relief exercise. Known as the “Whale Run 2024 Exercise Plan,” the process helps homeland security and ODART evaluate current disaster protocols for possible natural disasters. It’s meant to focus on the outcome of a fault-line rupture along the coast. According to ODART, “An abrupt shift of the earth’s crusts along the Cascadia Subduction Zone in the Pacific Ocean may result in a full-length ‘megathrust’ rupture” from Northern California into British Columbia. Residents up to 100 miles off the coastline would experience “severe shaking, subsidence,
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
liquefaction, landslides, tsunami, releases of hazardous materials, and seismic aftershocks.”
As part of the simulation, two seaplanes landed on Woahink Lake around 1 pm and a final seaplane landed on Siltcoos Lake a little over an hour later.
Mike Hancock and Jay Guettler were in charge of communications at the Siltcoos Lake site. Both showed up the site with a portable antenna and a truck full of radio equipment at 8 am that morning. They monitored the airwaves with VHF and HF radio for hours, but ran into problems just as the planes were scheduled to arrive in Florence. One of the tricky issues with communications is that during an actual emergency,
See ODART, Page A4
“2nd
point it does, there is private property to the south so it wouldn’t go straight through, it would have to make a jog to the left or right to connect with Arch Street or 1rst Avenue.”
“This is not an application for development,” said staff reports. “At the time of this annexation request there is no nexus to upgrade streets in the immediate area that may not meet current City standards or develop currently undeveloped street Rights of Way.”
Kurth said the existing park is zoned high intensity residential and an annexation of property for that use would require a conditional use permit and land use approval through the planning commission.
Affordable housing arrives in Florence
Officials and members of the public got a chance to visit the recently-completed Oak Manor affordable housing complex on Oak Street June 13 and hear from its developer.
The 24-unit complex contains a variety of room configurations.
According to Submitted by Layne Morrill, President of Our Coastal Village, Inc., “Six units are set
aside for households at or under 30% of the area median income at rents of $407 (1-bedroom) and $487 (2-bedroom). Sixteen units are set aside for households at or under 60% of the area median income with the rents prescribed for that cohort. Our Coastal Village has reduced those rents by an additional five percent due to its MUPTE property tax exemption, yielding rents for the sixteen units of $820
(1-bedroom), $984 (2-bedroom), and $1,137 (3-bedroom.) For comparison, in April 2021, Florence market rents were $950 (1-bedroom), $1,100 (2-bedroom), and $1,250 (3-bedroom).”
At the open house event, Morrill explained that “many, many” organizations came together to make the
See CODE, Page A5
Layne Morrill
Andrea Bell
See ANNEXES, Page A5
PHOTO ALICIA ORY DENICOLA
Mike Hancock and Jay Guettler operate portable radios.
PHOTO BY ALICIA ORY DENICOLA
One of two seaplanes landed on Waohink Lake as part of the ODART training June 15.
Anne O’Neill Strite
Anne O’Neill Strite died March 22, 2024, at Spruce Point. She is predeceased by her husband, Laban Strite, “the love of her life”, “Following the ebb and flow of the tides”, Anne and Laban settled in Florence, Or, in 2005. Anne held a
Masters Degree, worked as a script writer in Hollywood, and was a teacher and administrator. Always drawn to writing, she published a novel, “Benedictus”, based on her twenty years as a nun. Anne’s love of Nature drew her to the ocean, Siuslaw River, the North Jetty, and Heceta Head Lighthouse often.
Anne is survived by her step-daughters, Karen Sciba Strite and Linda Strite of Napa Valley, along with her Brother, Jim O’Neill of Bend, her sister Peggy Hamann of Los Osos, and many of Anne’s dear friends.
Anne will be remembered lovingly as one who laughed often and loved fully.
MERKLEY MONTHLY:
Belva Cherry
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our loving mom and wife, Belva J Cherry.
Belva was born December 5, 1933, on a family farm in Tama county, Iowa to parents Marlin and Beth Wieben.
After graduating from Dysart High School in 1951, she moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she met Ronald Cherry at an A&W root beer stand. They were married in 1954 and had 3 children.
Ron and Belva began an exciting and interesting life of moving throughout the United States for Ron’s career, settling into Tucson, Arizona for the last 44 years. While in Tucson she enjoyed working as a preschool teacher at The Beginning school.
After retirement they spent summers at their vacation home on the Oregon coast, calling themselves “rainbirds”. They enjoyed jazz festivals and attending UofA basketball games for over 30 years. She also loved quilting, cooking,
feeding birds and caring for her family. She is preceded in death by her parents and daughter Veronica (Debra) Cherry. Survived by her loving family, her husband of 70 years, Ronald Cherry; daughter, Diane Bentley and her husband Neil of Oro Valley, AZ.; son, Randall Cherry of Florence, Oregon. Please donate to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Association in her name.
OBITUARY POLICY
Country Media offers several options for submitting obituaries, each catering to different needs and preferences: DEATH NOTICE: This option includes basic information such as the deceased’s name, age, town of residency and details about any funeral services. There is no charge
Tackling the housing affordability crisis in Oregon
OR SEN. JEFF MERKLEY
June is National Homeownership Month, but the housing affordability crisis is putting home ownership farther and farther out of reach for too many working families in Oregon and across America.
When I was growing up, my parents, like many of their generation, were able to save enough money to buy a modest home for our family in Oregon. I still live in that same blue-collar neighborhood. But it’s a different story for my children’s generation. As prices to rent and buy skyrocket, young people are worried that they will never be homeowners. Today, too many folks are struggling to find a safe and affordable place to call home, while too many others have been forced into homelessness. This is unacceptable and unsustainable.
Economists estimate that Oregon is short 140,000 homes today – and we’ll need to build at least 500,000 new homes within the next 20 years just to keep up with demand. So, it was terrific to see our state legislature recently pass $376 million to boost housing production in addition to the federal dollars
• What is LifeMed?
I’m bringing home to Oregon to help.
Housing is vital for our economy. Every year, I host town halls in all 36 Oregon counties. Up and down the coast and across the state, I hear about the urgent need for more workforce housing. Companies tell communities they won’t bring their businesses to town without available housing for their employees, but housing developers say they won’t build new homes without knowing that new businesses are coming with employees to buy or rent them. It’s a classic Catch22 with our coastal and rural communities caught in the middle.
That’s why, as Oregon’s representative on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, which funds the federal government, I’m pushing to invest in housing programs. Here are a few quick examples. In March, we passed funding for fiscal year 2024, which included $1.6 billion for national rental assistance funding, $48 million for Rural Housing Service Vouchers across the country, and $12 million to support home-building non-profits, like Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, Oregon has received $90 million this year from the U.S. Treasury’s Homeowner Assistance Fund.
But we can’t only treat the effects of the housing crisis –we also need to go after those profiting off sky-high housing prices.
For generations, the greatest wealth builder for the American middle class has
LifeMed is a Membership Program which costs $65 annually, and will cover your Household* for the cost or co-pay of any medically necessary* prehospital care and ground transportation within Florence and the LifeMed reciprocal areas, that your current insurance does not pay**
• Will you bill my insurance?
As part of the Agreement, you give permission for us to bill your insurance carrier
• Why do I need LifeMed?
Most insurance carriers do NOT cover the total fee for ambulance services, therefore LifeMed covers any remaining costs, co-pays or deductibles for its members
See Agreement for details) (** FireMed program benefits may vary and are agency specific.)
been homeownership. Now, the powerful millionaires and billionaires who run hedge funds want to take that slice of the American pie away from working families and put it on their own over-flowing plates. In 2021, investors bought nearly 17,000 homes in Oregon – homes that should have gone to families. It’s a similar story all across the country. That same year,
in just one area of Atlanta, hedge funds bought more than 40 percent of the homes for sale. Hedge funds often make all cash, no inspection offers. Working families can’t compete with that!
That’s why I’ve introduced the End Hedge Fund Control of American Homes Act. It will kick hedge funds out of the housing market and require them to sell the homes
they own to working folks because houses should be homes for families, not profit centers for hedge funds. Early in my career, I helped build homes with Habitat for Humanity because I saw every day how lives were
Albatross Records
When I enter Safeway or Fred Meyer to shop, I notice on the door signs that stipulate no pets are allowed unless certified as “Service Animals “. Yet every visit I observe several patrons shopping with their family dog either sitting in the shopping cart or walking on a lease. State law stipulates animals/ pets are not allowed in food establishments. I do not want to place my groceries in a shopping cart that previously was occupied by your flea or tick infested dog or cat. I have witnessed your numerous times your emotional pet urinate or deficate in the aisles, which create a very unsanitary environment. Quit feeling entitled or special and keep your pet at home or in your car. We do not care how cute your dog is, keep them out of the store. Management is afraid to stop you and patrons do not want to create a scene, but 99 % of us do not want your pet in the grocery store. If you need an emotional pet to shop, then order your groceries online and have them delivered. Quit feeling entitled.
Steve Brooks Florence
It was a beautiful day in Florence. Deep blue sky, filled with large puffy white clouds. I was feeling life was working out, UNTIL, I went to Central Lincoln, CLPUD, to pay my bill at the drive-up drop box. It was gone! Now what!
Parking in handicap space I was able to go into the office. There, I was politely informed that there was no longer a drive-up drop box and no plans to replace one. That was very disappointing. After years of being able to pay without getting out in the rain, or when I’m unable to get out of my van because it would add to the pain and discomfort, I find this disappointing. I imagine parents with babies or children, those running late or those not dressed for public view, also appreciate the use of a drive-up drop box.
I would ask the Utility to take into consideration those of us who, for whatever reason, can’t get out of our vehicle easily or at times, at all.
Richard Mabius Florence
We’re gearing up for the November election, with a presidential debate already planned for June 27. The stakes are different this year. We’re long past voting to unite our “gay friends in the red states” with our “awesome god in the blue states,”as we did in 2008 when 28 states voted for unity and inclusion. No more I guess. As far as I can tell, the MAGA voter’s agenda includes: No room for our gay friends, definitely no room for transgender folks. We aren’t even free to fly a gay pride flag anymore.
No diversity in our schools or workplace. We’ve got children being kicked out of schools in America over the look of their natural ethnic hair.
The biggest ethnic round-up in the history of the world as far as I can tell. 11 Million Undocumented Workers which would undoubtedly scoop up plenty of US citizens in the process. Immigrants are “poisoning the blood of our country,” according to some.
There is a clear and present danger of being overrun by minority groups as espoused by the “You Will Not Replace Us,” white replacement theory crowd. Apparently it is the impetus to control women’s reproductive rights and produce more white babies in the white majority population.
Women’s reproductive autonomy is out the window. Not limited to abortion, various forms of birth control are also under attack, from IUDs to Plan B. Women, doctors and nurses can go to prison. In some scenarios, women die.
In other circles, girls apparently shouldn’t even bother with an education as homemaking and motherhood is the highest calling.
In foreign policy, the UN Is out, NATO is suspect and unfunded, and Russia is our preferred ally over our longtime European partners.
And don’t forget unlimited Presidential immunity.
My greatest generation parents fought for civil rights in the 60s, women’s liberation in the 70s, and even made room for transgender Christine Jorgensen in 1952. They would not recognize the current lurch towards hate as American or “patriotic.” I certainly do not.
Sandy Todd, Scott Todd Florence
LETTERS POLICY
Letters to the editor should contain at most 350 words. The Siuslaw News reserves the right to edit, condense, or reject any letter to the editor. Letters published in The Siuslaw News will also be published online. Letters to the editor and guest columns must include your first and last name, city or town or residence, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters endorsing candidates or campaign issues must be received no later than ten days before an election. Letters written by candidates will not be accepted. Letters to the editor should be the author ’s work. We strongly discourage and will attempt to weed out form letters, letters mailed to other news outlets, or letters written and edited by a third party, including but not limited to political parties. We try to restrict the printing of one submission per author per month. We do not publish anonymous letters, personal attacks, personal complaints, poetry, consumer complaints, or letters written in bad taste. To send a letter: Mail: Editor, Siuslaw News, 4969 HWY. 101 Notrth, #4 PO Box. 10, Florence OR, 97439 Email: treed@countrymedia. net.
Ärtêfacts exhibit at Chamber
“Herons, Fish, and Fun!”
is the coastal-nature inspired theme this month at the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce’s visitor center’s art gallery. The exhibit celebrates the beauty and vibrancy of nature, particularly focusing on the elements which bring joy and inspiration.
Possibly the most remarkable piece is the Edge Sculpture, based on a French Bulldog which has enjoyed a long history as a companion dog. This lovely creature is designed and sculpted in England by Matt Buckley at his studios in Shropshire.
Edge Sculpture is a collection influenced by style rather than subject. The mix of form, light, and texture gives a unique feel to each stunning sculpture. Medeiros is a jewelry designer/artist by
trade and says her personal art pieces are too small to display in this show; “But, we do have a couple sculpting artists’ and metal artists’ works on display,” she says.
“The exhibit closely characterizes what you’ll find at Ärtêfacts. It is always difficult for me to pick out just a few pieces for an exhibit like this as the shop is so diverse in product types and styles, but this display provides a good mix of everything we carry.”
“The art community in Florence, Oregon, is a vibrant and diverse hub showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions. The town is home to a surprising number of talented artists using various media to create captivating works of art,” adds Medeiros. “Local galleries, studios, and events play a significant role in fostering creativity and providing
platforms for artists to exhibit their work.”
Artefacts is at 1255 Bay Street (next to Books n Bears) in Florence, and is open seven days a week: Monday through Wednesday noon to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Their phone number is 541991-8380 and the website is FlorenceArtefacts.com.
The Chamber’s visitor center is at 290 Highway 101 in Florence. Hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from June through August from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information about joining or volunteering with the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, visit FlorenceChamber. com or contact Hannigan at 541-997-3128 or Bettina@ FlorenceChamber.com.
radio towers are likely to be down or non-functioning. So, the communications team needed to be able to negotiate in a situation without cell phone access.
“We’ve got several modes of radio capability. The main mode we’re using is called digital HF which means we’re using high frequency radio communications to communicate between here, Salem, and other people involved. And by digital signals I mean we’re essentially sending emails via radio” Hancock said.
Phillip Nel, Social Service Emergency Liaison for Coos and Curry Counties, said one of the takeaways from the exercise was that pilot, ground crews and volunteers worked very well together and that communications was where the most work could be done.
Because bandwidth on the radio waves was limited and there were many other users, Guettler and Hancock struggled to find a clear line, and for some time the crew didn’t know when the final seaplane was arriving.
Identifying this issue represents a success for the
exercise, which is meant to simulate real-world situations in real time.
However, it all turned out well in the end. The plane landed successfully at Dunes City, and Florence Food Share members, with the help of CERT ground crews, unloaded simulated aid packets that were ultimately donated to Food Share. The food packets were part of a $10,000 Lions Club International grant to help develop a Disaster Preparedness Plan (DPP) a plan. The two exercises are parallel, said Jim Origliosso, a Eugene Lion and ODART
Pilot. The Lions Club grant helped to create 1,000 disaster response kits (that include) flashlights, food, and different types of things that would come in handy.
“That is going down one track involving the Lions and the other is ODART, I’m sort of like the connection between the two tracks. Lions have got the disaster response kits, also called GO kits and ODART has agreed to warehouse them and then transport those to other Lions clubs that would need them. If it’s less than 40 miles, Lions would go there
and transport them by truck but if further they would be transferred by air,” Origliosso said A number of other local and regional groups helped make the simulation a success, including The Central Aid Agency, Oregon Department of Human Services for Coos and Curry Counties, and the Lane County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Sponsors of Whale Run 2024 include the Oregon Disaster Airlift Response Team in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Human
ALICIA
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project possible. The City of Florence was helpful throughout the process but also passed a property tax exemption for multiple unit dwellings, which allowed the rent to be dropped to an affordable level, he said.
Morrill spoke of the architecture team, National Equity Fund, Banner Bank and Oregon Housing, local contractors, Laurel Bay Gardens, Florence Food Share, Siuslaw Outreach Services, and Cascade Management, saying “than you from the bottom of my heart for helping bring this project together. He later noted that Miley Construction delivered the first two buildings in 11 months and the last two in one year.
Andrea Bell, executive director of Oregon Housing and Community Services, noted that many residents know the struggle to “just get by,” and have to decide which bills they can afford to pay on a given month. She said the topic often revolves around housing.
“One of the things about housing I’d like to continue
to hold onto is that we don’t have to agree on every life facet to make progress,” she said. “Generally, there is a shared understanding and a share fundamental common cause that homelessness and housing instability don’t have to be facts of life. We can do things to move the dial in a real way.”
She said she often receives letters from teachers who say they are struggling to pay rent, but they are also seeing students who have to move several times in a school year because of housing issues.
“Then we expect students to show up in school and be attentive when their housing situation is unstable from month to month or year to year,” she said.
Bell praised the Florence community for coming together to create affordable housing, saying the state office wants to be a partner in making more affordable housing possible.
“Our communities are stronger when everyone has access to their basic needs,” she said.
Mayor Rob Ward noted the need for affordable housing in Florence, saying theres been a void of it for many years. He recalled that Florence’s largest increase in homelessness has been senior residents.
“That’s because in the last five years, we’ve had a 70 percent increase in rent,” he said. “That’s big when you’re on a fixed income. How do you survive that?”
A nnexes
Th City Council approved the annexation From Page A1
Ward said affordable housing complexes like Oak Manor will be the answer in Florence.
“I’ve never seen an apartment complex with a garden and a greenhouse,” he said, “and we have identified a master gardener who is going to teach the people who live here how to grow food. What a novel idea.”
Ward said the City is excited about another such development that started with the sale of city property near Florence Police Department.
“It’s going to include a 50-child daycare facility,” Ward said over applause. “It’s so needed.” Noting that Lane County has been referred to
toilets,” said staff reports. “The site is currently served by and would continue to be served by Heceta Water District.”
The water district and transportation department had no issues with the annexation but Public Works commented that sewer options are available and would need to connect to the north park boundary. She said 100 percent of property owners in the area signed the petition for annexation and the double majority requirement has been met.
as “a childcare desert” and the difficulties for working parents in finding daycare.”
Ward thanked Morrill personally for his part in spearheading the project and his continuing work to develop more affordable housing in Florence.
“When I get time to really stop and think about the big picture of what affordable housing involves, especially being on the development side, the image that I keep coming back to and that gives me great joy and comfort is that the developer is sort of the hub of the wheel.”
Referring to partners as spokes, Morrill said all work together to build and support a functioning wheel.
On behalf of the applicant, Lane County Parks Division Manager Brett Henry said the sole reason for the annexation request was to replace the heavily-used vault restroom on the site which would need a connection to city utilities. Driftwood Shores representatives expressed concern about runoff. Planning Director Wendy FarleyCampbell added that the annexation would make it possible for the City to be involved in discussions about stormwater coming from the
“The ability to be at the center of that and see what everybody does, and see the spirit and enthusiasm they bring to their aspect of the work is really inspiring to me and it’s why I do what I do.”
The opening concluded with a tour of one of two remaining, 3-bedroom apartments. The basic layout featured no frills, fireplaces, expensive fixtures or accessories, but instead, a usable, practical layout with all needed amenities, essentially square rooms, a small balcony and the greenhouse and gardens.
County’s property. Henry said the County will work with the City on any stormwater requirements as they come up. By unanimous vote, the council adopted ordinances to assign the area to be open space district as part of the approved annexation. When asked, Planning Director Wendy Farley-Campbell said the public benefit will be the improvement of the restrooms there, which will be connected to City water and sewer.
PHOTOS BY TONY REED
Oak Manor also features tenant-usable garden beds and a greenhouse.
The layout is spacious and useful inside one of Oak Manor’s apartments.
Artists: Cole Swindell, Koe Wetzel, Gary Allan, Dylan Scott, The Cadillac Three, Jacquie Roar, Neal McCoy, Ashland Craft and many more.
Prizes: Win a pair of three-day passes along with pit passes for one day at the Oregon Jamboree set for August 2nd-4th valued at $680. Coast Radio will also give away a total of 3 pairs of three-day passes. The rst name drawn gets choice of which day they want pit passes to go with their 3-day passes. The second winner will choose between the remaining two days. The nal winner receives the remaining pair of pit passes.
Rules:
• 18 & over
• One Entry per Person
• Reselling Tickets Strictly Prohibited (Voucher may be Voided)
• You must live within a 60 mile radius of Florence, Oregon.
• Drawing to held Friday, July 17th
• Winners have until July 24th to pick up their tickets of they will be given to alternate winner
OREGON JAMBOREE GIVEAWAY SPONSORED
Community Briefs
Firewise application deadlines
Lane County’s Firewise Grant Incentive Program is accepting applications from residents in unincorporated Lane County through 4 p.m. on June 27, 2024.
Firewise grants provide rural property owners with funding to help complete projects that reduce the risk of wildfire, such as clearing vegetation, replacing wood shake roofing, fire-resistant landscaping materials, noncombustible exterior siding, chimney spark arrestors, and more. Up to $15,500 in grant funding is available for each qualifying property.
Paper applications are also available at the Lane County Public Works Customer Service Center (3050 North Delta Highway, Eugene).
Firewise grants are funded through Title III of the Federal Secure Rural Schools and Community
Self-Determination ProgramSection 601 of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008.
Apply online at www. LaneCountyOR.gov/firewise
Florence Food Share Receives Grant Award from The
Autzen Foundation
The Autzen Foundation has granted $8,000 to Florence Food Share. This funding will go towards replacing and repairing the parking lot surface, as well as upgrading the ADA spaces to remove physical barriers for clients who need access to emergency food at Florence Food Share.
Colin Morgan, Executive Director at Florence Food Share, stated, “Our goal is to remove physical barriers for about 4,000 clients annually and restore essential ADA access in our parking lot.”
“We extend our gratitude to The Autzen Foundation for their generous support in achieving these objectives” he added. The Autzen Foundation was established in 1951 to support charitable work that makes Oregon a better place.
Florence Food Share is located at 2190 Spruce Street in Florence and is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday and Wednesday evenings from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Community members are encouraged to visit to see what is available.
For details, visit https:// www.autzenfoundation.org/.
For more information or if you would like to contribute to this project, please call 541997-9110 or visit http://www. florencefoodshare.org/.
Let’s celebrate together
Florence Habitat for Humanity is gearing up for the July 4th celebration in Florence with several fun events.
Porch Parade
Decorate your porch, yard or front window and show your community spirit. Register your home or Business online at Florence habitat.org registration closes on June 30 at noon. Maps showing all registered participants will be available at Florence habitat.org on July 2nd
4th of July bike parade
Decorate your bike, scooter, wagon and bring the family down to Old Town to parade down Bay street. Registration forms are available at restore and City Hall
or on Parade day at the 1st Street and Hemlock staging area. Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. and the parade begins at 10:00 a.m. Pie and watermelon eating contest Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. and ends at 11:30 a.m. The contest begins at noon in the grassy area at the Port of Siuslaw. This is limited to the first 24 people to register in each age category; 5 to 10 years old, 11 to 15 years old, and 16 and up.
Bake sale Cookies and pies will be for sale
help with Food Share garden
City OF FLORENCE
Get involved! Have a voice in city government! Join the Transportation Committee or Environmental Management Committee!
Serving on a City of Florence Board, Commission, or Committee is one way members of the public can volunteer and get involved with their city government. The committees serve mostly
Volunteers Needed
in an advisory capacity to the City by providing expertise, identifying public concerns and focuses, and reviewing, advocating for and enforcing policies and regulations. However, Boards, Committees, and Commissions also dedicate hundreds of hours in performing work through public education, research, and study.
Committee appointments are approved by the Mayor after review by the City Council.
The deadline for applications has been extended to Monday, June 17, 2024, so apply today by clicking on one of the application links below.
The following Committees are currently filling vacancies for varying term lengths, with
positions set to begin June 1 Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) and Transportation Committee. For more information about the open positions or to get a printable application, contact City Recorder Lindsey White at 541 997 3437.
OREGON SALMON COMMISSION
In a recent letter, Oregon’s state seafood commodity commissions have expressed concerns to Governor Kotek over offshore wind energy plans proposed for the southern Oregon coast, emphasizing its adverse effects on the ocean environment and Oregon’s sustainable seafood industry. Oregon Trawl, Oregon Dungeness Crab, Oregon Albacore and Oregon Salmon Commissions urged Governor Kotek to prioritize Oregon’s own planning process under the auspices of the state official “Roadmap” initiative,
intended to guide responsible offshore wind energy development in Oregon.
The alternative would be to follow the rushed federal process, which does not allow the impacted communities an authentic seat at the table, and it does not prioritize the viability of the seafood industry or the health of the ocean.
“Being situated in the middle of one of the world’s four most productive marine regions, Oregon is blessed with its healthy abundant fisheries, which are known to be among the top well-managed fisheries in existence today,” said Yelena Nowak, the executive director of the Oregon Trawl Commission.
“It is critically important for Oregon to step up our efforts in ensuring Oregon’s impacted
communities and the pristine natural environments are respected and protected in the pursuit of offshore wind energy development.”
Oregon is one of many states around the country where the Biden Administration is looking to
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
At its June 12 meeting, the Siuslaw Unified School District Board of Directors approved a salary increase for it’s teachers that will put them in the top third of Oregon districts.
“We have been typically, middle-of-the-road for our base teacher salaries,”
deploy industrial offshore wind energy projects in the global fight against climate change. These facilities will be built in the pristine ocean ecosystems that support remarkable marine biodiversity, including many protected species. No environmental
District Superintendent Andy Grzeskowiak said after the meeting. “We changed the matrix a bit and we’ll probably be in the top third of salaries for teachers across the state, but by changing the matrix, it was targeted to bring in lower-end teachers. By the end of year two, the base salary crosses $50,000 for introductory teachers.”
1:00-3:00 pm. Cost $175 for FRAA members, $195 for non-FRAA members with $45 material fee.
Drawing Basics - Graphite with Peggy Ross
Learn drawing skills using he simple tools of graphite (pencil) drawing. 5 class series, Wednesdays, August 28, September 4, 11, 18 and 25, 12:00 pm (noon) - 2:00 pm. Cost $155 for FRAA members, $175 for non-FRAA members.
Draw Together with SCWBI
This free meet-up hosted by FRAA and SCWBI offers illustrators the opportunity to informally meet, share work and ideas. 4th Friday of each month, 5-7 pm. Next one, June 28th. For more info, contact Kassy at kkeppol@gmail.com.
Coastal Plein Air Art and Wine
Festival Registration is open for our 3rd annual event. Painters can paint along the coast between Sept 4-19 with final event on Sept 21-22. Prospectus available online at fraaoregon.org.
studies have been performed to assess the risks of largescale offshore wind energy production which risks overwhelming this unique remote oceanic region.
“We will continue to educate the Oregonians on what we believe is good for a
Grzeskowiak said successor contracts are renegotiated every three years and on average, the change results in a 5% base increase each of the three years, with a similar increase in insurance.
“It’s differentiated to catch up in this year, so the first base increase is 9.5%, the 3.5% and 3.5% in the third year of the contract,” he said.
School teacher wages are determined based on their education and years of experience. There are 15 steps (experience) and 6 education categories ranging from Bachelors degree with no experience (step 1) to a PhD with 15 steps.
For reference, the Step1 BA yearly wage increased from $43,993 last year to $48,172 this year. In the middle of the spreadsheet, a Masters degree in Step 5 increased from $55,972 last year to $62,925 this year. At the highest side, a step 15 MA/BA employee wage in creased from $84,577 last year to $88,215 this year. The Step 15 ED/PhD wage was set at $90,323.
Grzeskowiak said the PhD level was added this year so there is no comparative data from last year.
sustainable ocean, so we can all enjoy its bounty for years to come,” said Crystal Adams, the executive director of the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission.
FRAA ART CENTER
120 Maple Street Phone: 541-997-4435
Hours Open: Wed-Fri
Painting with John Leasure Saturdays 9 am - 12 pm No painting experience required. Contact: 541-991-2754 or jnleasure@hotmail.com for details/fees.
Big Wave Poetry 1st Tuesday
Open Mic Tuesday, July 2nd, 7 pm in person and Zoom at FRAA!
Poetry Writing Workshop Small group meeting of poets to enhance their written word. Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30-8:30 pm. Email fraaoregon@gmail.com if you are interested in joining.
Weaving Open Studio @ FRAA Thursday, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Contact FRAA to get on the contact list.
Open Studio @
“As far as entry level salaries go, teachers coming into the profession with a BA/BS degree, Siuslaw teachers will rank 3rd of 16 school districts in 24-25,” Grzeskowiak explained. “When it comes to the other end of the scale, teachers with a Master’s degree and 36 to 45 additional credits with 15 years of service, Siuslaw will rank 6th of 16 school districts in 24-25. As I estimated, near the top third.
He said that in looking outside Lane County, Portland Public School, Salem-Keiser and Bend-LaPine will be paid more in the next school year.
“Also, PPS & Salem will be higher than every district in Lane County,” he said. Grzeskowiak said the goal of bargaining this year has been to make Siuslaw competitive with districts in the valley in order to retain veteran teachers and increase the base wage so beginning teachers could afford to live and work in Florence.
The District board of directors approved the increase unanimously and without comment. Submitted
SPORTS & LIFESTYLE
Peace Run passes through Florence
By TONY REED Siuslaw News
A long-distance relay run to share messages of peace across the country passed its halfway point on the way through Florence last week. The Sri Chinmoy OnenessHome Peace Run has gone through160 nations throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia as
a symbol of humanity’s universal aspiration for a more peaceful world.
“The international team from 6 different countries is on a four-month journey across the US and Canada to share a message that peace begins with the individual,” according to a Peace Run release. “Along the route they meet with schools, youth
organizations and groups to give local citizens an opportunity to express their hopes and dreams for peace. The team will cover 74 miles on the 17th running from Florence to Lincoln City on Rte. 101 passing the Peace Torch along the way.”
The group ran into Florence June 16, stayed at the
night and departed the next morning.
“We run relay style and take turns at running so the two teams are running leapfrog this morning so they can run seven or eight miles in an hour,” said Harita Davies, director of the American Peace Run. “It’s been going for about two months. We began in
After
New York City.
Chainsaw Carving Competitors create works of art
By BREE LAUGHLIN The
World
Reedsport was buzzing over Father’s Day Weekend, as an impressive gathering of chainsaw carving artists transformed giant wooden logs into one-of-a-kind, creative masterpieces.
Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championship’s event organizers report that thousands of spectators pass through the gates each year to witness the artists in action. The 24th-annual event was no different. Artists who participated in the Carving Championship came from as close as Coos Bay and Bandon, spread throughout the United States, and traveled from far-away places such as Argentina, Australia and Wales.
The event took place at 313 Rainbow Plaza in Reedsport from Thursday, June 15 to Sunday, June 18. Over the course of four days, the carvers revved up their engines to chisel out huge sculptures, and also participated in a 90-minute Quick Carve each day.
The Chainsaw Carving Championship event included many souvenir and food and beverage vendors for visitors.
Each night, an auction was held, offering spectators the chance to purchase many unique and signature pieces from participating carvers
“at a fraction of the price in galleries.”
The event is known to many carvers as the ‘test.’ Carvers have said they are not satisfied calling themselves a Pro without first winning the Semi-Pro division in Reedsport.
The 2024 Pro Winners are: 1st Place - Emil Szkipala, 2nd Place - Chris Wood, 3rd Place - Jacob Lucas, 4th Place - Justin Driver, 5th PlaceNick Bielby, 6th Place - Chris Foltz, 7th Place - Brandon Kroon, 8th Place - Brian Vorwaller, 9th Place - Bill Baker, 10th Place - Anthony Robinson.
The 2024 Semi-Pro Winners are: 1st PlaceJarrod Flowers, 2nd Place
- Denny Henson, 3rd PlaceRiley Knaus. According to the Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championship website (oregonccc.com) the talented works of the chainsaw artists at the Reedsport show have brought recognition to the City, and in 2011, the State Legislature passed a resolution naming Reedsport “The Chainsaw Carving Capital of Oregon.”
PHOTO BY TONY REED
Erdenetsetseg Gankhuu from Mongolia and Udita Laboni from Bangladesh return to the Heceta Beach parking for lunch before driving north to relay with the other team that departed from there earlier.
New York and made our way all the way to here.”
having lunch at the Heceta Head parking lot June 17, teams continued north on Highway 101. They will run to Vancouver, Wash., to Winnepeg, Canada Detroit, Mich., to Boston, Mass. and back to
The 24th-annual Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Carving Championship set Reedsport abuzz over Father’s Day Weekend, as thousands of spectators watched the artists in action.
Casual and avid readers editors, authors, publishers, and all other manner of bibliophile will descend on the Florence Events Center on the last Saturday in September for the FACE Florence Festival of Books.
Produced by the all-volunteer Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment (FACE) nonprofit, this Festival has a proud heritage of gathering the best of Lane County’s (and beyond) book-centric people to an in-person event.
In 2024, the organizers are actively seeking additional new exhibitors, planning kids’
Come to the 2024 Block Party
together
for this support to assist in proving this amazing event for our community. Your support of this event ensures that we can provide an evening of fun and games for families to enjoy. Check out sponsorship opportunities on the City’s website.
The sponsorship form can be printed and filled out from the link under supporting documents on the sponsor
webpage, or filled out online. Sponsorship contributions will be essential to assist in covering the costs of the free concert, the interactive community scavenger hunt app, supplies for the fun and games, lots of ice cream and other goodies, giveaways for attendees, and other logistical needs associated with the event.
2024 Florence Festival of Books gets bigger and better
activities, and expanding the number of workshops—a very popular addition from 2023
“The team at FACE is planning a true festival experience for this event, similar to our annual Winter Music Festival format,” explained FACE president Rachel Pearson.
“This gives us multiple ways to enliven and elevate the event for our attendees and participating authors, publishers, and other exhibitors.”
Also new this year is a table devoted to activities for kids. Kassy Keppol, local elementary teacher and arts organizer will staff this table with her popular Dragon Art
creations and Kids’ activities geared to elementary age students.
Other upgrades involve increasing the number of workshops to five. Pearson said, “To provide more of these popular gatherings, we’re setting up 50-minute ‘jump-start/sampler’ sessions to give our attendees a foretaste of what each presenter offers in their books, services, and off-site seminars.”
In addition to all this book-centric goodness, great food will be available for purchase. A no-host coffee/ pastry bar will be open for business from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Chef Derek and his Florence Events Center Concessions Crew will have
lunch items from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Since its first edition in 2011, the Florence Festival of Books has drawn nationally renowned authors, publishers, and seminar speakers for an event attended by as many as 500 people from throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Organizers are planning more than 30 exhibits covering multiple facets of writing and publishing. Exhibits include authors with books to sell, authors looking for publishers, and publishers with books to sell while looking for their next great-selling authors—all spanning multiple genres in print, digital, and audio.
The event takes place Saturday, September 28,
& Zoom 4th Monday 7:00 pm “Ye are all leaves of one tree ...” -Baha’i Writings Join us on Facebook: Florence Baha’i Community For info and meeting location: 541-590-0779 ALL ARE WELCOME!
COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH
4590 Hwy. 101 N, across from Fred Meyer541 997-7418
SUNDAY SERVICES - Adult Bible Study 9:30 AM; Worship 10:45 AM; High School Youth 7- 9 PM
MID-WEEK- Women’s Bible Study-Tuesday 10:00-Noon and Thursday 7:00-8:00PM; Men’s Bible Study Thursday 8:00-9:30 AM; Middle School Youth Wed. 7-9 PM. Sunday Worship streams live at Community Baptist Church Facebook Page
We couldn’t provide amazing events like this to our community without the support of our local businesses and organizations. If you have any questions regarding the event or the sponsorship opportunities, please contact Megan Messmer at 541-902-2182 Full details on the event are available at ci. florence.or.us/2024blockparty.
2024, at the Florence Events Center, where the festival will unfold in the nearly 8000 sq. ft. exhibit hall. The address is 715 Quince Street (one block east of Highway 101), in Florence with plenty of free parking on site. Admission prices vary with access to workshops and speakers. Youth 18 and under are admitted free.
The 2024 Florence Festival of Books is a production of Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment (FACE), an independent 501c3 nonprofit that supports the Florence Events Center and all who use it. To learn more about how to join or volunteer with FACE call 541-991-8811 or visit FlorenceArts.org.
CROSS ROAD ASSEMBLY OF GOD Corner of 10th & Maple- 541-997-3533 Sunday Services 9am 1st Service in person Sunday Services 11am
2nd Service in person & livestreamed Wednesday kids/youth night is at 6:30 NOT livestreamed. https://www.florencecrossroadag.org/church-online Other platforms update after the service. florencecrossroadag.org office@florencecrossroadag.org
FLORENCE CHRISTIAN CHURCH
2nd & Ivy - 541-997-2961 - Non-Denominational Service is on Sunday at 10:00 am Sunday Service also streaming live at 10am at florencechurch.com
FLORENCE UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP 87738 Hwy 101 at Heceta Beach Road RUAUU? Come explore the answer with us. Sunday Worship Services ~ 10:00am www.florenceuuf.com
“Oregon’s Own” 234th Army Band to perform throughout Oregon
“Oregon’s Own” 234th Army Band of the Oregon National Guard to perform a series of free concerts throughout Oregon
WHO: “Oregon’s Own” 234th Army Band – Empire Builders Concert Band
WHAT: Live music event: “A Musical Journey” WHEN / WHERE: Florence: Florence Events Center on Tuesday, July 23rd at 7pm
(See below for free ticket locations).
The 234th Army Band, nicknamed “Oregon’s Own” is the Oregon National Guard’s ambassadors to the State of Oregon. Organized in 1919, the band has seen duty in the Pacific during WWII and was awarded several citations including the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for service from October 17, 1944 to July 4, 1945. The band tours every summer as part
of its Annual Training, performing concerts for the citizens of Oregon and beyond. “Oregon’s Own” was reorganized to the 234th Army Band on May 17, 1947 and has been proudly serving Oregon for over 100 years as one of the top bands in the nation. The band, under the direction of CW4 Ashley Alexander and SSG James Cameron, will perform a variety of music from classical to contemporary, intermixed with
patriotic songs and traditional marches. This family-friendly show will also feature vocalists SPC Kimberly Nagorska and SFC Duane Reno.
Based in Clackamas, the 234th Army Band is made up of 40 Soldiers from Oregon and Southwest Washington. In addition to saluting military Servicemembers past and present, the band aims to entertain all members of the community as a show of appreciation for the shared
sacrifice families of Oregon National Guard Service Members have endured in support of military operations around the globe. All performances are free to the public, and tickets to all performances will be available at these Sponsor locations for the Florence Event. (Please note: two tickets per person). The tickets are first come, first serve.
Lofy Construction LLC / Coastal Home Services 1885 18th Street, Florence West Coast Real Estate Service 1870 Highway 126, Florence Siuslaw News 4969 Highway 101, North of Fred Meyer Space #4 For more information, please call or visit: Siuslaw News, 541-997-3441
Siuslaw Library Summer Reading Program
CITY OF FLORENCE
City of Florence Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) members, Vicki Philben, Ivy Medow and City Councilor Sally Wantz, as well as Master Recycler,
541-999-3132. We hope to see you there!
Hourly pay plus commission.
fperea@countrymedia.net
2024 Election candidate application process
as a collective body to pass laws, fees, policies, budget and to supervise the City Manager and Municipal Court Judge positions. In order to be versed enough to make such decisions, serving on
the Council requires countless hours of study into the pressing issues of the City of Florence, as well as attendance at regular meetings, work sessions, and other external meetings where the Councilor and Mayor will represent the City and its interests.
The Mayor is the presiding officer of the City Council and thus officiates City Council meetings in order to preserve order. The Mayor
Caught on camera
On osprey that flew by the Siuslaw News office last week was carrying what appeared to be a Pacific lamprey.
According to a 2021 report by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, lamprey can be found in many Oregon rivers that drain into the ocean, including the Siletz-Yaquina, Alsea, Siltcoos and Siuslaw rivers. Researchers continue to study their populations, and say threats to the species
include stream and floodplain degradation, water quality, dewatering and flow management practices, as well as lack of awareness. According to the report, several projects were underway in 2021 to restore floodplain connectivity and remove barriers to fish passage on these rivers.
The Pacific lamprey is one of five lampreys considered to be sensitive species in Oregon. According to FWS,
they play an important role in river and stream ecosystems. Information varies, but some sources say the Pacific lamprey can grow to over two feet in length. According to Oregon regulations, the take of lamprey is prohibited except at Willamette Falls with a permit. More information can be found at https:// www.fws.gov/species/pacific-lamprey-entosphenus-tridentatus
also works directly with the City Manager to determine the order of business of City Council meeting agendas, and serves as the figurehead for the City of Florence.
Serving on the City Council or as Mayor is a uniquely interesting and rewarding job that requires candidates to be dedicated to uplifting the City by understanding the citizen’s values and goals. The Florence City Council conducts its regular meetings on
the first and third Mondays of each month at 5:30 p.m.
To run, all City Council candidates must be a registered voter having lived in the City of Florence for at least one year proceeding the election (November 5, 2023). More information about these positions can be found on the City of Florence website, which includes information on the process for running for office and more information about the job description.
Completed forms must be filed with the City Recorder by August 13, 2024. The filing period is from May 31 to Aug. 13, 2024. Contact City Recorder Lindsey White at 541997-3437 or via email at Cityrecorder@ci.florence. or.us for more information or to set up a meeting.
Eli Tattershall graduates
One local graduate whose photo was not in last week’s paper was Eli Tattershall, who received a high school diploma from Oregon Connections Academy, from
which 102 students graduated in 2024.
“I was born in Thailand and first came to the US at age six. I moved from Las Vegas to the Oregon Coast during pandemic,” he wrote
when contacted by OCA staff
“I look forward to helping the new generation change the world rapidly with evolving tech and AI advancements.
My passion is athletics, mainly soccer and hockey. I
am hoping to be considered for a scholarship in either those sports or computer science or both.” Eli was a former student at Siuslaw High School and was active in several sports.
PHOTO BY TONY REED
Nonprofits partner to protect 245 acres in Siuslaw estuary
Submitted by
MCKENZIE RIVER TRUST
Efforts to protect estuarine wetlands in the lower Sisulaw River watershed got a big boost on Tuesday (June 18th) with the addition of 245 acres of conservation land. Protected through a partnership between The Nature Conservancy in Oregon and McKenzie River Trust, with support from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and private donors, the area on the lower North Fork of the Siuslaw River provided the “missing piece of the puzzle” in a larger effort to promote a more resilient watershed through land protection and restoration activities.
The 245-acre parcel builds on more than 1,200 acres of land already under some form of permanent protection in the area. “The addition of the North Fork Bend property into conservation makes possible several opportunities to promote coho recovery, climate resiliency, and cultural connections in the lower Siuslaw basin” shares McKenzie River Trust’s Conservation Director, Eli Tome. “Working in collaboration with landowners who are seeing the value of their farmland decreasing due to changes in the watershed,
we are bringing financial resources to keep these working lands working. The difference is, that instead of supporting cattle, they’ll now support salmon, a healthy estuary, and a more resilient landscape.”
The area provides an important habitat for coho salmon to adjust between the ocean and freshwater stages of their lives.
“Investments in functioning wetlands are investments in our local economy. This project will have wide-ranging benefits for our local community, infrastructure, and resilience, especially for the
fisheries which have been hit hard by low returns of salmon over the last several years.”
The area has been supporting sheep and cattle production since the 1930s.
Longtime resident rancher
Nathan Large, who sold the property for conservation, has worked with McKenzie River Trust and its partners since 2016. “I’ve been running cattle here seasonally for 20 years,” said Large. “These low-lying tidally influenced areas just don’t produce enough agriculturally to pay off. When a dike breaks or a tidegate fails, it becomes cost prohibitive to keep the
land in production.” Large felt the land is best suited for restoration.
Protecting the property was made possible through a collaborative effort. The Nature Conservancy in Oregon worked with public and private funders to secure the property for conservation.
In June, they donated it to McKenzie River Trust, a local land trust that has been working on Oregon’s central coast since 2004.
“When approached by the Large family about this property, we immediately knew it was one of a kind,” said Jason Nuckols, Project Manager
for The Nature Conservancy in Oregon. “Without the passionate donors who supported this project, we couldn’t have leveraged the necessary public funds, and this project would never have been completed.
This work adds to a long list of projects The Nature Conservancy has successfully partnered with McKenzie River Trust on for over 20 years.”
McKenzie River Trust received funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board to support restoration design and engineering for
the area and adjacent lands.
Working closely with The Nature Conservancy in Oregon, Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siusalw Indians, and the Siuslaw Watershed Council, projects are currently in the design phase with the goal of restoring more than 550 acres of land within the estuary by 2030.
Looking to the future of the property, partners are preparing to implement enhancement projects to aid the river in its recovery.
The 245-acre area is located along the bank of the north fork of the Siuslaw River.
Classified
Florence Cleaning LLC - Licensed, Bonded, & Insured, Provides Consistent, High Quality Residential Cleaning. Call today at 541-9995033 or Book at www. florencecleaning.com.
301 - HEALTH & NUTRITION
Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855792-9764.
302 - PERSONALS
Florence Or please call Union Wa 360-8980130 to talk of seaplanes on Victoria BC Harbor and Black Ball ferry in May.
312 - EVENTS Ice Cream Social 07/05/2024 12-4pm at Oregon Pacific Bank Florence Branch.
500 - EMPLOYMENT
Crew Members - McDonalds is seeking enthusiastic & outgoing individuals looking for flexible schedule flexible hours. TEXT: OR192 to 38000 to apply.
Customer Service Representative- Zolezzi Insurance Agency is looking for a licensed customer service representative at their Florence location. Email resumes to craig@zianw.com
Housekeeper- help older person 2-3 days per week. Near bus route in Florence. 503-5514838.
Substitute Library Assistant position, Lower Umpqua Library, Reedsport. $13.50/ hour, irregular. Open until filled. 541-2713500, library@luld.org. luld.org/employment.
Volunteer Directors for Florence Senior and Activities Center- Need help to run our programs. Especially looking for skills in grant writing, fund raising and publicity. Please call the center on Kingwood: 541-997-8844.
602 - BOATS & MOTORS
8-foot PORTA-BOAT With oars, trolling motor & battery. $2000.00 + value. Proceeds will be donated to Salmon Trout Enhancement Program. 541-9972863.
702 - GARAGE SALES
Small Garage Sale Fri.Sat. 9am-4pm 83556 Manzanita Dr., Dunes City
750 - RVS FOR SALE
2016 Tundra Custom flow 5th wheel tailgate$200; RV portable “on the go” water softener$125; Honda 9hp pressure washer GX270 Davilbus pump$500; Thunder Bolt Magnum solar panel assembly kit- 45 wattnew in box- $100. 541-999-2306 lv. msg.
790 - MISC WANTED
903 - CONDOS
PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES
system improvements.
The selected consultant will assist the District with maintaining system compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. The selected engineer will play an important and active role in project funding pursuits and applications.
Proposal Instructions
Proposal Submittal and Due Date
The proposer shall email their proposal (pdf format) with a subject line reading
“Mapleton Water District Water System Improvements and EOR.”
Proposals should be addressed to: Vanessa West, District Board President, MWD
Email: vwest@mapletonwd.org
Proposals are due by July 10, 2024 at 3:00 PM. Late proposals will not be considered.
Questions should be submitted in writing to: Vanessa West, District Board President, District Email: vwest@mapletonwd.org
Questions are due by July 3rd, 2024 at 3:00PM.
Proposal Format, Evaluation Criteria, and Selection Proposals shall be put together as efficiently and cost effectively as possible to minimize costs to the proposer.
Proposals must conform to the format provided below to be considered. The proposal shall be a maximum of 8 pages (8.5 x 11 single sided), not including a cover letter and resumes. The selection process will use a 100-point scoring system to evaluate the quality of the proposal.
• Experience. Description of the proposing firm’s area(s) of expertise; previous experience working with small water systems; a history of working with funding agencies and acquiring needed project funding; and history of working with state regulatory agencies to collaboratively solve problems.
(2 page; 20 points)
• Availability to the project locale and Familiarity with the project locale. Description of the proposing firm’s proximity to the project and history of working with the Mapleton Water District. Preference will be given to engineering firms with prior or current working relationships with the District and who have an office within 75-miles of MWD. (1 page; 30 points)
• Project Team and Work Approach.
Brief description of key team members and their professional credentials with a discussion of their anticipated roles for this project. Please indicate the project manager and who will be performing the day-to-day work. Provide resumes of key staff for review. Also include a general work approach for design/ construction projects.
(4 pages; 30 points)
• Similar Project Examples. Share two example clients/projects of a similar nature as MWD that the proposed engineer’s project office did. Provide contact information for an individual who can serve as a reference. (1 page; 20 points) The District is using a qualification-based selection process for the selection of an engineering consultant. Selection of the most qualified consultant will be made without regard to the price of services. The District will have 3-5 people on a Selection Committee. Consultants will be ranked and the top Consultant selected based on rankings (not total point score) from the evaluation process. It is anticipated selection will be from the written proposal; however, the District reserves
the right to interview any or all of the consultant(s) if deemed advantageous. The District will enter negotiations with the highest-ranked consultant regarding the consultant’s scope of work, price for services, payment methodology, and any other provisions that the District believes are in the District’s best interest to negotiate. The negotiation process may continue in this manner through successive candidates until an agreement is reached or the District terminates this RFQ. This solicitation is not an implied contract and may be modified or revoked without notice.
PUBLIC NOTICE
999 - PUBLIC NOTICES
SN24-2118 Notice of Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the Florence City Council will hold a hearing in person and via videoconference on July 15, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the City of Florence City Hall Chambers located at 250 Highway 101, to consider and deliberate on the following: Ordinances No. 6 & 7 Series 2024: Petition from Jeffrey Morrison and Tina Gardner to annex approximately 0.20 acres of property and apply Medium Density Residential (MDR) zoning at 4751 S. Harbor Vista Dr., approximately 109’ West of the intersection of S. Harbor Vista and Rhododendron Dr. Meetings air live on Cable Channel 191 and stream at www.ci.florence.or.us/ citymanager/public-meetings-live. Testimony can be given in writing or through a request to participate in the meeting. Those wishing to testify either in person or via conference call must submit a speaker’s card by 3:30PM on June 15, 2024. Testimony not submitted in compliance with the above procedures, will not be included in the record. For additional information, https:// www.ci.florence.or.us/ council/request-address-city-councilspeakers-card or contact the Community Development Department at 541-997-8237.
PUBLIC NOTICE SN24-2119 NOTICE OF POTENTIAL ORDINANCE PASSAGE On July 1, 2024, the City of Florence City Council will review and consider an ordinance concerning the following... Ordinance No. 1, Series 2024 - An Ordinance amending Florence City Code Title 1 by adding Chapter 9 to establish time, place, and manner regulations regarding emergency shelter super siting and temporary sheltering. This notice serves as official publication of the availability of the ordinance. The full text of this Ordinance is available on the City of Florence website at www. ci.florence.or.us, on or before Monday, June 24, 2024, or may be inspected at Florence City Hall, 250 Hwy 101, Florence, Oregon during regular business hours. Persons wishing to address the City Council may submit comments in writing or may provide verbal comments. Written testimony may be submitted by: 1. Email to the City Recorder at cityrecorder@ci.florence.or.us; 2. Mail to Florence City Hall; Attn: City Council, 250 Hwy 101, Florence, OR 97439 3. Drop off at Florence City Hall (250 Hwy 101) during regular business hours, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or at the City of Florence drop box located at Florence City Hall to the right of the main entrance. ** NOTE: Written comments must be received at least 2 hours prior to
the start of the meeting (July 1, 2024 at 3:30 p.m.) to be distributed to the City Council and made part of the record. Citizens may provide verbal comments / testimony at the meeting either in person or virtually. In order to participate verbally at the meeting, citizens are required to complete a speaker’s card at least 1 hour prior to the start of the meeting (July 1, 2024 at 4:30 p.m.). Speaker’s cards are available online at www.ci.florence.or.us/council/request-to-address-citycouncil-speakers-card, or by contacting the City Recorder via email at cityrecorder@ci.florence.or.us or by phone at 541-997-3437. For more information about this notice, or any Florence City Council proceedings, please contact City Recorder Lindsey White at 541-997-3437, or via email at cityrecorder@ ci.florence.or.us.
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF ELECTION OF BOARD MEMBERS FOR CENTRAL LINCOLN PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT Notice is hereby given that on November 5, 2024, an election will be held for the purpose of electing two (2) Directors to fill the following positions and terms, including any vacancy which may exist, on the Board of the Central Lincoln People’s Utility District. Position: Director for the Central Lincoln PUD Subdivision No. 3 consisting of District territory within the following Lincoln County Precincts: PCT 01 Waldport, PCT 02 Alsea, PCT 03 Seaview, PCT 05 Yachats, PCT 06 Bayview, PCT 07 Seal Rock, PCT 08 South Beach, and Lane County Precincts: PCT 701 including an area along Highway 101 from the Lincoln County/Lane County border to Florence city limits, PCT 703 including Swisshome, and PCT 707 including Mapleton. Term: Four years, beginning Thursday, January 2, 2025. Position: Director for the Central Lincoln PUD Subdivision No. 4 consisting of District territory within the following Lane County Precincts: PCT 705 including an area around and adjacent to the Florence and Dunes City limits, PCT 4500 Dunes City and PCT 4600 Florence. Term: Four years, beginning Thursday, January 2, 2025. Each candidate for the positions listed above must file a declaration of candidacy or petition for nomination for office (SEL 190) with the Elections Department in the Office of the County Clerk of Lincoln County, Oregon; this may be done no sooner than July 18, 2024, and no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. The Lincoln County Clerk’s Office may be reached at 541-2654131, and additional information is avail able at https://www. co.lincoln.or.us/221/ Candidate-Filing-Information 06/19, 06/26.
at www.questcdn. com, QuestCDN Project No. 9182289. Bids will ONLY be received and accepted through QuestCDN. Prospective bidders must be on the QuestCDN planholders list for bids to be accepted and receipt of Addenda. Bidders must prequalify five (5) days prior to the bid opening with the Owner. The project consists of: Demolition and removal of existing office and shop building. District office building including conference room, kitchen, bathroom, mud room, and office spaces. District shop building with five (5) overhead garage doors. Site improvements including asphalt, concrete, drainage, fencing, striping, and other miscellaneous requirements.
Bids not fully completed in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders will not be considered. A Bid Security executed in favor of the Owner in the amount of not less than 10% of the total amount of the Bid is required.
Per ORS 279C.385 (2), Bid Security is to be forfeited as fixed and liquidated damages should the Bidder neglect or refuse to enter into a Contract and provide suitable insurance certificates, bonds, and other required documents for the faithful performance of the work in the event the Bidder is awarded the Contract. All bidders must be equal opportunity employers, provide proof of an employee drug testing program, be registered with the Construction Contractors Board and comply with all state and federal laws.
A Pre-bid Conference will be held at 10:00 am local time on July 9, 2024 at the Heceta Water People’s Utility District, 87845 Highway 101, Florence, Oregon 97439. Attendance at the Pre-Bid Conference is highly encouraged but is not mandatory.
Each Bidder must submit a First-Tier Subcontractor Disclosure Form, Evidence of Authority to Sign Bid, and Evidence to do Business in the State within two working hours of the time for receipt of the Bid.
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS HECETA WATER PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT DISTRICT OFFICE AND SHOP BUILDING
Sealed bids for the construction of the District Office and Shop Building for the Heceta Water People’s Utility District (Owner) will be received by 2:00 pm PDT July 30, 2024. A virtual bid opening will be held at the day and time of the bid closing utilizing GoToMeetingTM. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. All interested parties are invited to attend.
The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: The Dyer Partnership (541) 2690732. Bidding Documents are available
Contractors and all subcontractors shall pay at least the state prevailing rate of wage as determined under ORS 279C.815. ORS 279C.800 to 279C.870 will be administered and enforced in accordance with state law and regulations. Work under this Contract is funded by the federal Safe Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund through Business Oregon and a partnership of local and/or private funds. This funding requires the Contractor to comply with buying American Iron and Steel (AIS) as spelled out in the 2014 Consolidated Appropriations Act. No Bid will be received or considered by the Owner unless the Bid contains: 1) a statement that Bidder will comply with the provisions of 40 USC 276a and ORS 279C.840 and 2) a statement as to whether the Bidder is a resident Bidder as defined in ORS 279A.120. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids, to waive all informalities, and to accept such Bids that in the opinion of the Owner are in the best interest of the Owner. Dated this 17th day of June 2024 Owner:
