As leaders who have served this community at every level, across different political perspectives and different eras of public service, we know what steady, responsible leadership looks like. We also know the damage when it breaks down. Each of us has carried the weight of governing and the responsibility that comes with it.

Recently, an independent investigation concluded that Commissioner David Loveall violated Lane County policy prohibiting retaliation against employees who raised concerns. The investigator interviewed 15 individuals and reviewed hundreds of pages of documentation. The findings were clear: Retaliation violations did occur. County policy defines retaliation broadly, including actions that could discourage a reasonable employee from reporting wrongdoing. This was not rumor or opposition retaliation. It was a formal process with documented conclusions.

Commissioner Loveall’s response gives us pause. When an independent investigation reaches serious findings, leadership demands accountability, not deflection. Dismissing the matter as “political” may be convenient, but it does not address the substance. It does not reassure employees. It does not restore public confidence. And it does not undo the hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars already spent managing the fallout of his actions.

This is not about ideology. It is about judgment and temperament. Effective leaders reflect, course-correct and rebuild trust when mistakes are identified. When those in authority undermine the standards set to protect employees, it weakens morale, damages relationships with partners and distracts from the work our community expects and deserves.

Stability, professionalism and respect are not partisan values — they are the obligations that come with authority. The work of this county is too important to be overshadowed by preventable conflict.

Our community deserves better.

Peter DeFazio
Former U.S. representative, Oregon 4th Congressional District

John Lively
Oregon state representative, District 7

Sid Leiken
Former Lane County commissioner, former Springfield mayor

Joe Pishioneri
Former Springfield city councilor and council president