MAYOR'S MESSAGE Clear Skies & Clean Streets February has surprised us with some beautiful, sunny days, and it’s been great to see people around Coos Bay getting outside and enjoying the weather. If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the sunshine while giving back, consider joining the OBAB community cleanup at John Topits Park on Saturday, February 14, 2026. It’s a great opportunity to show the park a little love, meet neighbors, and make a visible difference in a short amount of time. Another way residents can help keep Coos Bay clean year-round is by participating in the Adopt One Block program. Individuals, families, businesses, and community groups can “adopt” a block and commit to helping keep it litter-free. Signing up is easy — just choose a block and agree to give it a little attention on a regular basis. You can learn more and sign up at: https://www.adoptoneblock.org/ When many people each take responsibility for a small area, it adds up to cleaner streets, less garbage in the public right-of-way, and debris staying out of our storm drains and waterways. As many of us take advantage of this early taste of spring to tidy up yards and outdoor spaces, please remember to keep grass clippings, leaves, and other yard debris out of the storm drain system. In a coastal community like ours, storm drains play a critical role. When they become blocked, even a normal rainstorm can lead to water pooling in streets and intersections, creating hazardous conditions for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. A quick sweep back onto your lawn makes a big difference. Looking ahead, there will also be a free hazardous waste collection event at the Beaver Hill Disposal Site on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Proper disposal helps keep harmful materials out of our environment and protects both people and wildlife. Thank you for helping take care of Coos Bay. By working together — whether through a cleanup event, adopting a block, or simply being mindful while working in our yards — we can enjoy the beautiful weather while keeping our city clean, safe, and ready for the next rain. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay