Local Government

Lane County is set to lead Oregon in landfill innovation by using drones to detect methane leaks, a harmful greenhouse gas. Officials say it will improve worker safety, reduce inspection time, and enhance environmental monitoring.

Lane Community College’s Board of Education voted to censure one of its own Wednesday, after an independent investigation substantiated allegations that board member Zachary Mulholland had engaged in bullying and discriminatory behavior toward LCC’s president, as well as other women at the college.

Springfield will soon seek applicants for a recently vacated council seat previously held by Victoria Doyle.

Springfield may take a second look at its contract with a private company that provides AI-license plate readers after several community members raised privacy concerns.

Lane Transit District will soon be getting a new app that will alert riders about delays, and other real-time route information. The new app will also encourage users to report problems at their bus stop and provide feedback about their ride.

After four years of discussion – Roseburg city leaders are still struggling to decide how to handle downtown parking.

Tommy Gong, who has more than 20 years of experience administering elections in California, was selected after a national search. He succeeds former Clerk Dena Dawson, who left to become the elections director for the Oregon Secretary of State's office.

Lincoln County will ask voters in November for a five-year-levy to raise funds for veteran services.

The Eugene City Council officially started the search for a new city manager Wednesday by unanimously choosing a professional search firm. Current city manager Sarah Medary will retire at the end of the year.

Springfield City Council unanimously voted to send an expanded fire levy to the ballot Monday in hopes of recovering the true cost of providing fire service.

Eugene City Council approves its next two year budget Monday, staving off large cuts to library and animal services by raising stormwater fees. Reductions to some other services are still planned.

Springfield City Council has approved next year’s budget. The new spending plan includes nearly $1.4 million in cuts.