I am delighted Lookout Eugene-Springfield sponsored election forums, and I attended the one for candidates for Lane County commissioner. The questions were pertinent, covered a wide variety of issues and provided a good opportunity to compare the candidates.

The Springfield District 2 contest came first and attracted the most interest. David Loveall made the most distinct impression for me, but not a positive one. He was defensive, self-righteous and combative, clearly does not believe in transparency, and, though he clearly feels that his aggressive persona helps him to represent his constituents, it has also cost the county hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Sean VanGordon is a mainstream local politician, well-spoken, friendly, open and likely to be an asset on the board, while William Monsoor is less predictable. His ideas seem fresh and often inventive, with what seem to be valuable perspectives. I believe Loveall will continue to do more harm than good if reelected. I think VanGordon and Monsoor would both make good commissioners. Due to his unique perspectives, I would probably choose Monsoor, but that preference is not very strong.

The West Lane District 1 forum was quite interesting. Ryan Ceniga seems to have worked his way up from Junction City to the board. However, he does not seem to believe in transparency and is less sympathetic to other entry-level workers than one might anticipate. Thomas Hiura seems to have all the skills of Ceniga with none of the drawbacks. He believes in transparency and accountability, is extremely personable, he has been in a wide variety of venues and has gotten to know people in all kinds of positions and all walks of life.

The East Lane District 5 was less intense. Bob Zybach would solve every problem by expanding the timber industry. Jake Pelroy has critiques concerning permitting, land management and public safety, but it’s not clear that he has appropriate solutions. Heather Buch seemed technical and systems focused, but she, like Hiura, would be of, by and for the people, and has my support.

Alan Cohen
Eugene