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Siuslaw News Wednesday, March 5, 2025 Florence, Oregon

Number 10 • 134 years

Stand down helps many By TONY REED Siuslaw News

Over 100 people, many with pets, came through the Siuslaw Veteran and Community Stand Down Feb. 22 to take advantage of a variety of services and resources. A tally at the end of the days showed 106 people attended, 47 of whom were Veterans. Staff at the registration table said the most-requested services related to pets, haircuts and dentistry. Many others left the event with food, sleeping bags, clothing and personal items. See STAND DOWN, Page A7

The Florence Elks Lodge was abuzz with activity for four hours during the Veteran and Community Stand Down. Photo provided.

Janel Montes and Tyler Delle administer a booster to this little pup, who took it all without a whimper. Tony Reed photo.

City approval clears way for Lotus building renovation By TONY REED The Siuslaw News

At its regular meeting Feb. 24, the City Council voted unanimously to approve the amendment of a comprehensive plan diagram and a zoning change that will allow the owner of the former Lotus building to potentially renovate the former Lotus building to house 16 residential apartments. The building is known to locals as it’s been unused for many years, but its parking lot is still used for viewing the west side of the Siuslaw River Bridge and as overflow parking during city events. At its Jan. 14 meeting, the Planning Commission heard From the Siuslaw River Bridge, the former Lotus building can be seen on the river shoreline. Tony Reed photo.

See BUILDING, Page A5

Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority promotes two SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

Western Lane Fire and EMS Authority Chief Michael Schick recognized the promotions of two department officers with a pinning ceremony Feb. 27 at the station in Florence during the Board of Directors meeting. Rob Chance was promoted from Division Chief to Deputy Chief and Andy Gray was promoted from Captain to Logistics Division Chief. As Deputy Chief, Chance will be responsible for training, operations and EMS. Gray is now responsible apparatus, facilities and capital projects. Schick said each have been with the agency for 13 years and have done exceptional work for the department and community.

INSIDE

Obituaries — A2 Sports & Lifestyle — B1

Division Chief Andy Gray after his daughter Talia pinned his new gold badge on his uniform.

Opinion — A3 Classifieds — B6-7

Deputy Chief Rob Chance stands with his son Maddox, who pinned his new badge. Tony Reed photos

Erin Reynolds

Annual review calls city manager “outstanding” SIUSLAW NEWS STAFF

City Manager Erin Reynolds received a glowing evaluation and a pay raise at the Feb 24 City Council meeting. City HR Director Alex Ferguson explained that the annual process demonstrates accountability to staff and the public. The review team is made up of the mayor and council president, and the remaining councilors have opportunities to evaluate the city manager as well. Results of those evaluations are compiled as one. Reynolds received a 3.97 out of 4 rating (99.3%), which is considered outstanding, he said. In Executive Session before the regular meeting councilors discussed contract negotiations, and a 10 percent increase was recommended to the council. See MANAGER, Page A5

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Call or email Jeanna Petersen for more information: 541-902-3529 • jpetersen@countrymedia.net