Florence voters will decide on a new city council member this November as incumbent Councilor Jo Beaudreau runs for a second four‑year term. She joins three challengers—local businessman Terry Duman, longtime resident Ryan Eichelberger and a fourth candidate whose name was not disclosed in the interview series.

Incumbent Jo Beaudreau emphasizes budget expertise and community projects

Beaudreau describes herself as a “budget nerd” who enjoys digging into memos and policy details. She says her love for the work stems from a desire to serve the small‑town community she grew up in, noting that Florence’s rural roots shaped her perspective. “It’s beautiful, it’s full of love, and I’m dedicated to it,” she told West of the Tunnel.

During her first term, Beaudreau supported the controversial Flock Safety cameras, voting with the majority despite some council opposition. She says the experience taught her the value of listening to fellow councilors and constituents.

Looking ahead, Beaudreau highlights three priority areas:

• Mobility hub: She wants a central location that links public transportation to the town, inviting residents to help shape its design.
• Emergency preparedness: With Florence’s coastal location exposing it to tsunamis, earthquakes and rising king tides, she stresses the need for robust response plans.
• Wage growth and housing: Beaudreau argues that low wages threaten families and urges the city to partner with private and governmental entities to develop affordable housing and early‑learning centers.

Terry Duman runs on transparency, housing and business growth

At 68, Duman is a third‑generation Floridian who has worked as an ATV rental operator, commercial fisherman, bike‑repair shop owner and gas‑station manager. For the past decade he has served on the Siuslaw Port Board of Commissioners, including six years as chair.

Duman frames Florence as a town at a crossroads, needing more housing and jobs to transition from a timber‑and‑fishing legacy to a thriving tourism and retirement community. He calls the city’s current image “an image problem” that can be fixed by greater transparency and accessibility.

Key proposals include:

• Moving council meetings to more family‑friendly times, arguing that 8 a.m. sessions deter parents and full‑time workers.
• Reforming the permitting process to remove barriers that drive businesses away.
• Converting light‑industrial zones with river views into residential lots to increase affordable housing supply.
• Encouraging single‑family homes and small standalone accessory dwelling units rather than duplexes.
• Studying a special district for parks and recreation and helping unhoused residents secure grants.

Duman identifies as a conservative with “open ears,” noting his experience on the port board equips him to guide Florence through upcoming budget challenges.

Ryan Eichelberger emphasizes hard work and community service

Eichelberger, whose family moved to Florence in 1985, grew up learning the value of labor from his father, a veterinarian who founded Oceanside Veterinary Clinic. He now works with seniors and retirees, stressing the importance of earning one’s way in life.

While his interview was cut short, Eichelberger’s platform centers on supporting families, preserving the town’s small‑town character, and ensuring that local services meet the needs of an aging population.

What’s at stake for Florence voters

The council seat will be decided alongside a mayoral race and a separate two‑year council term. Voters face choices that could shape Florence’s approach to housing affordability, transportation connectivity, emergency readiness and economic development for years to come.

All four candidates have pledged to keep council meetings open and accessible, reflecting a shared belief that transparency is essential for a thriving community. As the November ballot approaches, Floridians are encouraged to review each candidate’s statements and consider how their priorities align with the town’s future.

Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.