With landfill costs on the rise, the town of Florence is seeking ways to make trash disposal costs resemble more the fees the public pays. In their latest meeting, the town council discussed ideas for improving service and saving money, with Florence residents’ unlimited monthly landfill trips in jeopardy of being eliminated.

Also, in Florence, the Florence Unified School District is preparing for a potential housing boom in the area by accomplishing its goal to of building seventh and eighth grade classroomsnext to its high schools. Junior high buildings would mark a new direction for FUSD and Superintendent Chris Knutsen said the move will further academics in the district.

And, in national news, residents in Ohio are raising concerns following the aftermath of a train derailment that spilled hazardous chemicals. As chemicals were burned off after the derailment, concerns over air quality, dead animals and the safety of drinking water have been brought up by residents in the East Palestine area.