From Battlefield to Boardroom: Pelroy Announces Run for East Lane
Candidate Criticizes Waste Project, Calls for New Direction for the County
EUGENE: Marine Corps veteran and small business owner Jake Pelroy has announced his candidacy for the East Lane County Commissioner, District 5 seat.
Pelroy, a Lane County native, said his campaign will focus on reducing the cost of living, improving public safety, and cutting through what he describes as “a dysfunctional county bureaucracy” that hurts small businesses and working families.
“Lane County is facing real challenges right now-from the high cost of living that forces families to move, to safety issues in our neighborhoods,” Pelroy said. “I began my career as a trash hauler right here in Lane County. I understand that working families are the backbone of our community. They deserve a voice in county government.”
Pelroy joined the U.S. Marines in 2005 and completed three combat tours in Iraq before returning home to work in public policy. He now serves as president of the Lane County Garbage and Recycling Association, where he has opposed a $174 million solid waste facility proposed by the current County Commission majority, arguing it would increase garbage bills for residents.
His campaign launch includes endorsements from several local leaders.
“I’ve known Jake for several years,” said State Rep. Darin Harbick. “He’s a devoted family man who has served our country with honor. His post-military service reflects his continued passion for serving his neighbors.”
Cottage Grove Mayor Candace Solesbee also voiced her support, saying Pelroy brings “a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach” to local government. “We cannot afford another four years of mismanagement,” Solesbee said.
Pelroy lives in Eugene’s Churchill neighborhood with his wife, Kelly, and their two sons, Graham and Marcus.
District 5 covers a large portion of East Lane County, including Cottage Grove, Creswell, Coburg, Oakridge, Lowell, Westfir, and several unincorporated communities such as Goshen, Pleasant Hill, Dexter, Walterville, Blue River, McKenzie Bridge, and Marcola.
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