Lane County Board Highlights Transportation Safety, Veterans, and Community Solidarity
Goal of zero roadway deaths by 2045 adopted
EUGENE: The Lane County Board of Commissioners opened last Tuesday’s meeting with a moment of recognition for Veterans Day and a statement of unity following recent crimes targeting Asian-American residents.
The meeting begann by honoring Marine Sergeant Dakota Meyer and all who have served, noting the county’s gratitude to its roughly 65 employees who are veterans. The board reaffirmed its support for the Asian-American community after a series of burglaries believed to be bias-motivated, noting “Lane County stands firmly against intimidation and hate.”
During public comment, resident Chris Cirillo urged commissioners to condemn any celebrations of political violence after encountering a person dressed as a “murdered Charlie Kirk.”
Attorney Mike Reeder, representing Sharon Simpson Carroll, asked the Board to waive Lane County’s Land Use Board of Appeals remand fee for applicants who win judgements against county decisions. Reeder and Bill Close, who spoke on behalf of Kathy Jones McCann, also raised concerns about Ordinance 25-07, which regulates riparian vegetation near housing. Both offered to volunteer their expertise to improve the ordinance rather than appeal it.
Residents JP Lemkey and Cameron Stringfield voiced opposition to the county’s purchase of 22 Flock surveillance cameras, citing risks to privacy and potential misuse by law enforcement. Stringfield noted that similar systems had been shut down in Eugene and urged the county to cancel the contract.
Transportation planners Becky Taylor and Taylor Carsley presented the 2025 Transportation Safety Action Plan, which sets a goal of zero roadway deaths and serious injuries by 2045. The plan focuses on rural Lane County, where about 11 deaths and 33 serious injuries occur each year – among the highest rates in Oregon.
The plan targets roadway departure crashes, which account for 62% of severe incidents, and recommends measures such as rumble strips, intersection redesigns, and increased traffic enforcement. Commissioners approved the plan unanimously.
County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky provided updates on local elections and Veterans Day, while Kachina Inman from Health and Human Services briefed the board on partnerships addressing recent shelter funding cuts.
Commissioner Pat Farr announced a $5,000 personal donation from his office fund to the Egan Warming Centers and encouraged his colleagues to contribute as well.
In closing, Jeff Kincade presented the one-year implementation plan for the 2025–2027 Lane County Strategic Plan, focusing on departmental coordination and rural development initiatives. The Board approved the plan unanimously.
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