Florence City Council celebrates achievements and honors departing members at annual meeting

The Florence City Council held a special meeting on January 13, 2025, marking the end of the term for several council members and celebrating the city's achievements over the past year. Mayor Julia Au Buchon reflected on the accomplishments of various city departments, emphasizing the collaborative efforts that have made Florence a better place to live, work, and play.

Among the highlights, the Public Services Department launched its first-ever public works academy for high school students and upgraded lighting systems at key city facilities, enhancing energy efficiency. The Finance Department, under new leadership, continued to excel in customer service, handling over 16,000 inquiries and earning a prestigious award for financial reporting for the nineteenth consecutive year.

The Florence Fire and EMS Department received accolades for their exceptional medical response, with team members recognized for their leadership in mentoring future first responders. The Police Department also made strides in community engagement, teaching DARE to over 800 students and successfully fundraising for children's cancer research.

The meeting also served as a farewell to departing council members Mel Carroll and Jenna Kemper, who were honored for their years of dedicated service. Carroll, with 34 years on the council, was recognized for his commitment to improving the quality of life for residents, while Kemper was celebrated for her advocacy for youth sports and community engagement.

Looking ahead, the council welcomed newly elected members and expressed optimism for continued progress in Florence. The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency and community involvement, as the city prepares for a bright future in 2025.