FAQs

What is The National Community Survey (The NCS)?

Developed over 20 years ago and continually refined, The NCS is a survey of resident opinion that provides robust benchmark comparisons among communities across the nation. It has been used in more than 350 jurisdictions across 46 states. Communities using The NCS have reported that the tool improved service delivery, strengthened communications with community stakeholders, and helped leaders identify clear priorities for use in strategic planning and budget setting. It is the only resident survey endorsed by the International City/County Management Association and the National League of Cities.

Category: Community Survey
What is the scope of the project?

The Rolling Dunes Park Improvement project is an ambitious endeavor aimed at enhancing the park's amenities and accessibility. Here's an in-depth explanation of what the project entails:

  • Pickleball Court Expansion: The project includes expanding the existing tennis court area to accommodate new pickleball courts. This expansion aims to cater to the growing popularity of pickleball, providing more recreational opportunities.
  • Accessible Pathway: To ensure inclusivity, an accessible pathway will be added, allowing visitors, including those with disabilities, to easily access the tennis and pickleball courts. This pathway will comply with ADA accessibility standards.
  • Restroom Facilities: The project involves the construction of new restrooms at Rolling Dunes Park. These restrooms will be fully ADA accessible, providing improved facilities for park visitors.
  • Picnic Shelter: A new picnic shelter will be built, enhancing the park's amenities. This shelter will provide a shaded area for picnics and gatherings, making the park more inviting for families and groups.
  • Heavy Timber Pavilion: A heavy timber pavilion will be constructed, offering a versatile space for various activities, events, and gatherings. This pavilion will contribute to the park's aesthetics and functionality.
  • Accessible Picnic Tables: The addition of accessible picnic tables will ensure that everyone can enjoy outdoor meals comfortably. These concrete tables are durable and designed to meet ADA standards.
  • Other Enhancements: The project will also involve resurfacing the existing tennis courts, installing windscreens for improved playing conditions, adding fencing for security, and making parking lot improvements.
Category: rolling dunes
Who do I contact with question on the Rhody Drive project?

For questions or concerns related to the Rhododendron Drive Realignment and Improvement Project, please contact Florence Public Works by email at publicworks@ci.florence.or.us or phone at 541-997-4106. 

Category: Rhododendron Drive Realignment & Improvement Project
Who needs a business license?

A City business license is required prior to opening a business within the City limits, or before doing business within the City. Here are some checkpoints to see if your business would require a City of Florence Business license.

  1. Is your business's physical address located within Florence City Limits (i. e. is your office located in Florence)
  2. Does your business come into Florence City limits to do work. (examples include contractors, traveling salesman, and consultants)
  3. Do you advertise your business within the Florence City limits, with the intent to sell your products or services to Florence City residents

If you said yes to any of the above, then your business is likely required to obtain a Florence business license. The City of Florence regulates all kinds of businesses from bakeries, contractors, specialized consultants, retail establishments, and everything in between. More information on the business license requirements can be found in Florence City Code Title 3 Chapter 1 located on the City of Florence website or by contacting the City Recorder’s office.

Category: Business License
Background of Polco

Polco is an online community engagement polling platform that is conducting The NCS. Polco launches surveys and analyzes the data, providing local governments and other public sector leaders with important information needed to make decisions within the community. Hundreds of organizations nationwide use Polco for strategic planning, budgeting, and empowering resident voices.

Category: Community Survey
Can I use a tiny home on a trailer as an ADU?

Yes, if the structure is made permanent through the payment of Systems Development Charges (when required) and it meets all the requirements of state Building and Fire Codes and architectural standards for the underlying zoning district (FCC 10-10).

ADUs built on an axel frame may be considered a permanent dwelling through the removal of tongue and running gear, addition of blocking, and the addition of skirting.

Please consult with the Building Official for more information regarding these structures.

Category: Accessory Dwelling Units
How long does a business license last?

There are four types of business licenses for the City; Temporary; Permanent; Home Occupation; and Master Vendor/Vendors. A temporary business license lasts for six months from the date of approval. Permanent business licenses & Home Occupations are good until the end of the calendar year (December 31st) of the year you apply, and are renewable annually after that. Master Vendor/Vendor licenses last for as long as the special event / season applied for (usually one weekend)

Category: Business License
What is the construction time line? What is the timing of each phase? Will they overlap?

The project started March 11th 2024 and is expected to last till December of 2025. If it is done sooner, we could have a parade that much earlier! There will be a lot of over lapping in the 3 different phases of the project. There might even be a time when all three work phases are happening at once.  

Category: Rhododendron Drive Realignment & Improvement Project
What is the project status and current timeline?

Current Status: Awaiting submission of the Land Use Application by Public Works

Estimated Project Timeline:

  • End of January 2024 - Land Use Application Submitted to City by Public Works
  • February 2024 - Planning Commission Review
  • March - end of Summer 2024 -
    • Phase 1: Construction begins on Tennis Court Expansion
    • Phase 2: Restrooms and Picnic Shelter
  • End of Fall 2024 - Targeted Completion
Category: rolling dunes
What We Are Doing
  • We are collaborating and coordinating with our partners in Florence, the Siuslaw Region, and at the County through the West Lane Emergency Operations Group (WLEOG) to identify community needs and address them as quickly as possible.
  • We are making sure our first responders and personnel stay healthy and are prepared to continue serving the community.
  • We are suspending meetings, temporarily closing facilities, and modifying some face-to-face services to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Florence and Lane County. See below for specific information.
Category: COVID-19
Who is eligible to annex?

Land proposed to be annexed must be within the City’s Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) and contiguous to the city limits or separated from the city only by public right of way or a stream, bay, lake, or other body of water.

Within the Urban Growth Boundary?

Areas eligible for annexation are those properties within the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB). The UGB is the area that the City, through its Comprehensive Plan and approval by the State of Oregon, has determined  is subject to urban uses and eventual inclusion within the City.

Annexed Area Contiguous to Current City Boundary?

In addition to being located within the Florence UGB, properties must be contiguous to the City’s boundary in order to be eligible to annex. In some cases, the connection to the City boundary can be made by annexing a right of way, such as a street.

Can the City Provide Services?

In order to take a property into its jurisdiction, the City must be able to provide services such as wastewater treatment and police service. The City also coordinates with other agencies to ensure non-City provided services would be available, including water supply, fire protection, electricity, and more. The adequacy of these services for a particular kind of development isn’t a major factor until development is actually proposed in a later application. For the purposes of an annexation request, it only matters that services can be provided at a basic level.

Category: Annexation: FAQ
Who is Protected?

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing because of:

  • Race
  • Color
  • National Origin
  • Religion
  • Sex
  • Familial Status
  • Disability
Category: Fair Housing Act & Housing Discrimination
Can I operate a short-term rental out of my ADU?

No. Florence City Code FCC 10-10-6-C (pg. 7) prohibits renting an ADU as a short-term rental (stay less than 30 days).  ADUs are intended to encourage a variety of housing types to meet long-term housing needs in the City.

Any person operating a short-term rental within Florence City limits is required to obtain a City of Florence Business license. For more information, please visit this LINK

Category: Accessory Dwelling Units
Could my property be annexed if I do not want it to be?

The City’s current policy is not to force annexation, meaning a property owner has to request annexation for their property and go through the process.

Category: Annexation: FAQ
How is the project funded?

The funding allocation is specified as part of the City's budget. The project is funded through a grant, with a 50-50 split between the grant and the city. The grant is from the Oregon State Parks Land and Water Conservation Fund and was accepted by the City Council on October 17, 2022.

An estimated breakdown of the project budget is as follows:

Estimated Project Budget
Aspect of Project Estimated Cost
Court Improvements $ 101,000
ADA Improvements $ 16,000
Restroom Improvements $ 186, 000
   
PROJECT TOTAL $ 303,000
Grant Fund Request $ 151,500
City Cost $ 151,500
   

 

Category: rolling dunes
What are the business license fees?

The amount of fees that you pay depends on the type of business license that you need, depending on the work you will be doing and how long you plan to work in the City.

  1. Permanent Business License fees are $84 per year, which is prorated for the second half of the year at $42. The fee is waived for non-profits with a valid 501(c)3. This means that if you apply from January 1st through June 30th your business license fee will be $84 for that calendar year. If you apply from July 1st through December 31st your business license fee will be $42 for that calendar year.
  2. Temporary Business License fees are $45 for a one time job, or for six months. Food vendors, contractors, or any business that does not plan to operate for more than six months would qualify.
  3. Home Occupation fees are $47 per year, which is prorated for the second half of the year at $23.50 (see Permanent Business Licenses). To qualify for a home occupation license you must operate your business from within your permanent residence, and fill out an additional “Home Occupation Form”.
  4. Master Vendor/Vendors fees are $22 per vendor, with one person/organization applying for a master vendor’s license. These license types are specific to special and seasonal events such as the Rhododendron Festival.
  5. All business licenses are subject to a $10 application fee
Category: Business License
What are the different Phases?
  • Phase 1: North of 35th to the north side of New Hope Lane
  • Phase 2: New Hope
  • Phase 3: New Hope Lane to Wildwinds
Category: Rhododendron Drive Realignment & Improvement Project
What Types of Housing Are Covered?

The Fair Housing Act covers most housing. In very limited circumstances, the Act exempts owner-occupied buildings with no more than four units, single-family houses sold or rented by the owner without the use of an agent, and housing operated by religious organizations and private clubs that limit occupancy to members.

Category: Fair Housing Act & Housing Discrimination
Why is The NCS broken down into two surveys?

The Sampled Survey was designed to be as representative as possible of the population of the county. A sampling of community households are selected to participate and they are randomly selected from a comprehensive list of residential addresses as an effort to reduce bias and get feedback from all areas within the community. The sampled group is mailed a paper invitation and survey packet, though they may opt to fill out the survey online. Their link is unique to their household and should not be shared. This effort is to gather accurate data from the residents who make up our community today.

The Open Participation Survey is offered to all residents so each voice in the community can be heard. This survey is hosted online only. It is identical to the Sampled Survey except that it asks if you are a resident of the community and to confirm which area of the community you live in.

Category: Community Survey
Why We Are Doing It
  • All of these efforts help slow the spread of COVID-19.
  • By slowing the spread, it is the goal to preserve our health care capacity which will be critical in the coming weeks.
  • These actions also help protect people who may be at higher risk - people over 60 and those with pre-existing respiratory, cardiac conditions, or who are immunocompromised. 
  • We can all help reduce the impact of COVID-19 in our community.
Category: COVID-19
How long will The NCS be open?

The Sampled Survey is open May 20th through July 1st at midnight.

The Open Participation Survey is open June 10th through July 1st at midnight.

Category: Community Survey
If a property or right of way is annexed next to me, but I remain in the County, would I be required to pay City taxes, too?

No. The City only taxes and provides City services to property within City limits, even if you are along a street that has been annexed.

Category: Annexation: FAQ
What are the anticipated impacts and benefits?

Enhanced Recreation Opportunities: The addition of pickleball courts, improved tennis facilities, and accessible pathways will likely encourage increased physical activity and outdoor recreation among community members of all ages.

Improved Accessibility: The project's focus on ADA accessibility ensures that individuals with disabilities can enjoy the park's amenities, promoting inclusivity and equal access to recreational spaces.

Community Gathering Spaces: The new picnic shelter, heavy timber pavilion, and picnic tables provide spaces for community gatherings, picnics, events, and social interactions, strengthening community bonds.

Quality of Life: The overall enhancement of the park's amenities and aesthetics contributes to an improved quality of life for local residents, providing a welcoming and attractive environment for leisure and relaxation.

Category: rolling dunes
What Can You Do

Executive Order: Stay Home Except for Essential Needs

On March 23, Gov. Kate Brown issued Executive Order 20-12, effective immediately until further notice. This is a statewide order. Failure to comply with the order will be considered an immediate danger to public health. For more information, read the latest press release

If you’re not sure about an activity, skip it. Staying at home as much as possible during this time will save lives.

  • Follow the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, the Oregon Health Authority, and Lane County Public Health regarding healthy behaviors and social distancing.  
  • Help each other through checking on your neighbors, reducing stigma, supporting local organization and businesses.
  • Educate yourself through trusted and official resources to reduce the spread of misinformation.

More information at https://govstatus.egov.com/or-covid-19

Category: COVID-19
What does the business license fee pay for?

The City of Florence strives to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of citizens of Florence through regulation of businesses. The business license fees help pay for City review of the new and renewing businesses to verify that applicants comply with City, State, and Federal regulations and that they will not endanger property or public health/safety.

Category: Business License

Pages