As an independently minded voter, I attended Lookout Eugene-Springfield’s Lane County commissioner candidate forum on April 13 at the Wildish Community Theater.

It was really apparent who should be leading Lane County government into the future. Sean VanGordon, Heather Buch and Thomas Hiura show the skills and leadership qualities we need.

David Loveall, Ryan Ceniga and Jake Pelroy showed us only arrogance, smugness and no willingness to listen or respect the opinions of others.

Pelroy only represents big corporate garbage waste management. He simply can’t be trusted with the needs of east Lane County residents. Loveall remains especially pompous and unyielding, even when his misbehavior has cost the county so much money — with more costs to come!

We could have used the funds to increase rural sheriffs patrols! And now, Loveall is even suing the county he is supposed to represent, in federal court — again childishly wasting our money. I’ll bet he’ll lose and carry on his appeals, he’s that kind of guy. Ceniga is Loveall’s wingman, defending his misbehavior and backing him up in every vote, hardly an independent voice on the commission.

Lane County voters clearly need to choose the best candidates, reelecting Buch and replacing Loveall and Ceniga. We need relief. Please join me in supporting Sean VanGordon, Heather Buch and Thomas Hiura in the May 19 election. 

Thank you to Lookout Eugene-Springfield and moderators Ben Botkin and Elon Glucklich for this excellent opportunity to evaluate the candidates for these important positions. 

Mike Koivula
Springfield