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Siuslaw NewsWednesday, February 18, 2026 Florence, Oregon

Number 7 • 136 years

Western Lane Crisis Response Program awarded School board FROM WLFEA

The Western Lane Crisis Response Program (WLCR) has been awarded the Outstanding Special District Program Award from the Special Districts Association of Oregon (SDAO) in recognition of its outstanding service, innovation, and commitment to supporting individuals and families in crisis throughout Western Lane County. The award, presented by SDAO at its 2026 Annual Conference in Seaside, Oregon highlights special districts and programs across Oregon that demonstrate

excellence in public service and measurable positive impact in their communities. Western Lane Crisis Response was selected for its dedication to providing timely, compassionate, and effective crisis intervention services, as well as its strong partnerships with local governments, first responders, and community organizations. “This recognition from the Special Districts Association of Oregon is a meaningful affirmation of the critical work our staff and volunteers do every day,” said WLCR Program Manager Melissa See AWARD, Page A6

approves bond language

SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

From Left to Right, Cindy Gentry, WLCR Program Assistant Manager, Melissa House, WLCR Program Mananger, Kristy Simmons, WLCR Client Advocate, Lori Oltman, WLCR Crisis Responder.

FAC presents last pitch for new high school By TONY REED The Siuslaw News

FAC Vice-chair Mike Harklerode speaks to a group in the high school library about the proposed replacement of the high school building. Tony Reed photo.

In a final presentation before it went before the School Board Feb. 11, Siuslaw High School Principal Mike Harklerode explained the reasoning for a bond measure to construct a new high school and renovate the elementary school. As the Vice-Chair of the Facilities Advisory Committee, Harklrode and Committee Chair Bob Orr have given many presentations to local groups in the last six months, to inform voters about the deteriorating condition of the high school and much-needed improvements to the middle school. Harklerode said the Committee is in a “holding pattern” until it can get one more See FAC, Page A7

Missing Teen may be in Florence area Officials say a teenager who was reported missing Feb 3 from Eugene may be in the Florence area. Eugene Police Department Information Officer Melinda McLaughlin said Monday morning that the case is still active and the teen has not been located. Michael M. Newton, age 16, went missing last week and Oregon Department of Human Services personnel say he may be at risk. Officials hope to locate him and assess his safety. According to ODHS,

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Obituaries — A2 Sports & Lifestyle — B1

he may be traveling with his mother in Cottage Grove, Mapleton or Florence. He is 5 feet 9 inches tall, at 240 pounds, with dark brown hair and blue-grey eyes. As of press time Feb. 12, there have been no new reports or information. If you see him in the county, make note of the location, call EPD at 541 682 5111 and refer to case number 26-02698. If you see Newton in Florence, please call 541 997 3515.

Opinion — A3 Classifieds — B6-7

At its regular Feb 11 meeting, the Siuslaw School District Board of Directors unanimously approved the language of a bond measure which, if approved by voters, will result in the construction of a new high school, major improvements to the elementary school and construction of a dedicated bus lane between the schools. The board also approved language allowing the district to receive $6.126 million in state matching grant money, should the bond measure pass. Bonds for the project would be issued in a principal amount not to exceed $139 million. Directors had little discussion on the matter before reading the resolution into the record. The resolution said the board has determined a need to finance capital costs for safety improvements, including the joint funding of safety improvements and has applied for the Oregon School Capital Improvement Match for a $6.126 million grant if voters approve general obligation bonds. The District anticipates incurring expenditures to finance the project and will reimburse itself from the proceeds of general obligation bonds which may be issued as tax-exempt obligations, subject to voter approval. “A measure election is hereby called for the purpose of submitting to the electors of the District the question of authorizing general obligation bonds,” the resolution declares. The form will be delivered to the Election Officer of Lane and Douglas Counties, Oregon not later than February 27, 2026, which is 81 days prior to the election date. According to the resolution, the law firm of Hawkins Delafield & Wood LLP, is hereby appointed to serve as Bond Counsel with respect to the issuance of the Bonds. Piper Sandler & Co. is hereby appointed to serve as Underwriter or Placement Agent with respect to the issuance of the Bonds. According to the resolution’s Exhibit A, bonds may be issued in multiple series; each maturing within 30 years from issuance. The estimated annual tax rate would be $2.75 per $1,000 of assessed value. The actual levy rate may differ due to final interest rates and changes in assessed value (not market value). To find your properties assessed value, go online to https://lcmaps.lanecounty.org/ propertysearchnew/

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