I read the article about Lane County’s monetary settlement of $250,000 with Erin Pettigrew, former Lane County counsel. Based on the reporting, it seems the issue began with the alleged actions of Lane County commission Chair David Loveall.

Then, when requested by Pettigrew to meet to talk about the issues, he allegedly did not participate. The $250,000 comes from the Lane County commission’s self-insured funds and, therefore, taxpayer funding.

First, I do not understand why Loveall is allowed to remain on the commission, let alone remain as chair. Secondly, I believe there needs to be some accountability, when the county has to pay out money because of alleged individual actions by an elected official.

Perhaps Loveall should be required to reimburse the county insurance fund through a monthly payment or a reduction in his commissioner salary. Why should all of us have to pay for his lack of follow through on his campaign promise of “Loveall for All”?

Or has the national norm of lack of consequences for bad behavior by elected officials now trickled down to our county?

Tricia Hedin
Eugene

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