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News Release

Lane County Technology Services Recognized As 2025 Digital Counties Survey Winner For Third Year In A Row (Photo) -07/16/25

Lane County Technology Services received 8th place in this year’s Digital Counties Survey – making this the third year in a row in the top 10 counties with populations between 250,000 and 499,999.  

Lane County was recognized for its work to make the best use of limited resources by creating solutions that increase resiliency, including moving to virtual desktop infrastructure to reduce dependency on expensive hardware; expanding the availability of data analytics tools and training; creating guidance for the use of generative artificial intelligence; partnering with the State of Oregon to share data in support of parole and probation services, as well as the new behavioral health deflection program; and enhancing election transparency with improved public data dashboards and live video feeds.  

“Being recognized for a third year in a row feels really good. Our work is often behind the scenes, but it’s critical to everything Lane County does on behalf of our residents,” said Lane County Chief Information Officer Michael Finch. “We have a duty to use technology to improve services, keep private information safe, and protect our systems against cyber threats.”

Conducted by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo), the survey evaluates counties across the nation, recognizing those that demonstrate excellence in the strategic use of technology to address local challenges, increase government efficiency, and enhance citizen engagement.

About the Digital Counties Survey

The survey was developed in partnership by NACo and conducted by CDG to identify the best technology practices among counties in the United States. NACo unites counties, serving nearly 40,000 county elected officials to advocate for county government priorities in federal policymaking. CDG is a national research and advisory institute focused on technology policy and best practices in state and local government. 

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Lane County Public Health Reminds Community Members To Stay Safe In Heat; Cooling Resources Listed -07/16/25

Temperatures in Lane County are forecasted to reach the mid-90s on Wednesday, prompting Lane County Public Health to remind residents to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness and to stay safe by staying cool. 

For a list of updated cooling centers and heat-related resources, please visit: http://lanecountyor.gov/cooling

REMEMBER:   Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include young children; adults 65 and older; athletes; and people with chronic illness or who are overweight, work outdoors, or have a low income.

The best way to protect yourself from the harmful effects of excessive heat is to stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed. 

  • Wear light colored clothing and use sunscreen. 
  • Schedule outdoor activities during cooler times of the day — like in the morning or evening. 
  • Drink plenty of fluids. 
  • Avoid alcoholic and sugary drinks. 
  • Stay informed of the weather and watch the Heat Index to help you identify the most dangerous periods during the heat wave.

Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion:  

Heat Stroke:

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, sweating stops, and the body can’t cool down. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Warning Signs of Heat Stroke:

  • Very high body temperature (104°F or more)
  • Red, hot skin
  • Rapid and strong pulse
  • Possible-unconsciousness

 If you see any of these signs, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 911 and then begin first aid for heat stroke.

Do the following:

  • Move the person to a cooler place, such as a shady or air-conditioned space.
  • Reduce the person’s body temperature by using cool cloths, a garden hose or even a cool shower.
  • Do NOT give fluids.
  • Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101–102°F.

If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for more instructions.

Heat Exhaustion:

Heat exhaustion is a milder illness that can develop after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. This is particularly true if fluids are not being replaced fast enough or when you are not drinking the right kinds of fluids.

The warning signs include the following:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Cold, pale and clammy skin
  • Fainting
  • Nausea or vomiting 

If you or someone you know is experiencing heat exhaustion:

  • Move to a cooler location.
  • Lie down and loosen your clothing.
  • Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of your body as possible.
  • Sip water.
  • If you have vomited and it continues, immediately seek medical attention.


Keeping Your Home Cool:

If you have an air conditioner, make sure it is installed and working. Set air conditioners to the setting most comfortable to you, preferably between 72°F and 79°F. Block the sun by using awnings or closing curtains and blinds during the day. Avoid using a fan as your main cooling source — especially when it is 90°F or more.

If you don’t have a place that is cool during the hottest parts of the day, LCPH recommends visiting a place that has air conditioning, e.g., a library, community center or shopping center, or a park with plenty of shade and/or a water feature, like a splash pad. For a complete list of places to cool down around Lane County, please visit: http://lanecountyor.gov/cooling 

Lane County Commissioners And Oregon Business Development Commission Approve Tax Incentive For $253 Million Investment At Sierra Pacific Industries’ Eugene Sawmill -07/15/25

Lane County proudly announces a significant step forward in regional economic development with the approval of Sierra Pacific Industries’ (SPI) $253 million Oregon Strategic Investment Program application.

The tax incentive, approved unanimously by the Lane County Board of Commissioners on June 10, is designed to encourage long-term business investment and signal to other companies that Lane County is a prime location for growth and innovation. The Board’s support underscores Lane County’s focus on fostering business growth, supporting jobs, and strengthening the local economy.

The Oregon Business Development Commission, part of Business Oregon, also voted unanimously on July 11 to provide the final necessary approval of the application.

Board of County Commissioners Chair David Loveall emphasized the broader significance of this investment, noting that it sets a precedent for future business development in the region.

“Lane County is open for business,” shared Chair Loveall. “At a time when Oregon communities are facing economic uncertainty, we want to send a strong message to those looking to invest in Oregon: Lane County welcomes you with open arms.”

Sierra Pacific Industries’ investment will create substantial economic benefit to Lane County. While the company is projected to save $6 million in property taxes over the 15-year SIP period, it will generate approximately $21.9 million in new property taxes and services revenue. This includes an estimated $19.9 million from new assessed property taxes and $2 million in Community Service Fee (CSF) payments. The company also plans to make a voluntary, one-time $525,000 contribution to Lane County’s rural patrol program.

"This support from Lane County is more than an economic boost—it’s a vote of confidence in Sierra Pacific’s presence in the region and our shared vision for long-term, sustainable growth,” said SPI CEO Mark Emmerson. “The investment we’re making in Eugene will ensure our ability to support family-wage jobs and grow the county economy for years to come."

Beyond economic growth, this investment also strengthens local infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in the area surrounding the project. The CSF paid by SPI will provide new revenues for 75 percent of the surrounding area’s non-education taxing authority. The Lane Fire Authority is expected to receive just over $1 million in CSF payments.

"This investment marks an important milestone for our region,” shared Lane County Community and Economic Development Manager Jason Harris. “This capital commitment by SPI represents economic growth, innovation, and an invitation for partnership in our communities.”

With about 350 people currently employed at the Eugene mill and as a leader in sustainable forestry and manufacturing, SPI has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to invest in Lane County. Across Lane County, the company also has a sawmill in Noti, nearly 33,000 acres of sustainably managed forests, and a total employment of nearly 500 people. The company’s commitment to responsible business practices and economic development aligns with the County’s vision of a thriving business environment.

The Strategic Investment Program (SIP) was created by the Oregon Legislature in 1993 to support large capital investments by companies that create long-term economic value. The program provides temporary property tax abatement to encourage companies to invest in local operations, retain jobs and strengthen the local tax base over time. Increased tax revenues support critical public infrastructure and community services such as public safety. Urban SIP Projects, like SPI’s project, require a minimum investment of $150 million with companies continuing to pay property taxes on the first $100 million of that investment. 

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Free Repair Services Coming To Cottage Grove, Florence & Oakridge With New ’Fix-It Booths’ -07/10/25

Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management, is excited to announce a new initiative to bring free repair services to rural communities through “Fix-It Booths.”

Residents near Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge can now bring their broken household items to scheduled events and work with volunteer fixers to get them repaired—free of charge.

The booths will run from now through early fall.

Unlike larger Fix-It Fairs, which feature multiple repair experts at a single event, the Fix-It Booth model will offer a single fixer at a time, allowing for more frequent repair opportunities. This approach ensures rural communities have ongoing access to repair services, reducing waste and saving residents money.

Event Details

  • Where: Cottage Grove, Florence & Oakridge Farmers Markets. See schedules and locations at fixitlanecounty.org/calendar.
  • Cost: Free
  • What to bring: Small household items in need of repair (e.g., clothing, small appliances, electronics, etc.) Please visit fixitlanecounty.org/calendar for specifics before attending.

Since 2023, Lane County has hosted five Fix-It Fairs, serving hundreds of residents and diverting countless items from landfills. However, rural communities have expressed a need for more frequent repair opportunities. The new Rural Fix-It Booth Project addresses this gap by providing consistent, accessible repair services where they’re needed most.

“We’re thrilled to expand our repair services through this innovative model,” said Jeff Orlandini, Waste Management Division manager. “By setting up at local markets and events, we can help more people fix instead of replace, keeping usable items out of the waste stream and supporting sustainable habits.”

In addition to the Fix-It Booths, Lane County will also host a traditional Fix-It Fair in Springfield later this year on September 21.

For more information, visit FixItLaneCounty.org/calendar or follow Waste Wise Lane County on social media.

About Waste Wise Lane County

Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.

REMINDER: LANE COUNTY RECOMMENDS DRUG OVERDOSE PREVENTION STRATEGIES FOR SUMMER EVENTS -07/09/25

Lane County Public Health recommends safety precautions around substance use at festivals, concerts, and events. There is a continued prevalence of fentanyl in Lane County’s illicit drug supplies. The effects of fentanyl, a powerful illicit opioid, are seen in increased calls to 911, emergency room visits, and deaths.

In summer months, Lane County residents attend increased outdoor events that may include alcohol and illicit substance use. Because fentanyl is undetectable, public health officials recommend being educated and prepared to save lives.

An overdose from fentanyl can be reversed with the use of naloxone, sometimes known as Narcan, an overdose reversal medication that is safe, legal, and available over the counter for anyone to use in an emergency.

The signs of a fentanyl overdose include being unresponsive, having slowed or no breathing, having gray skin, or making gurgling or snoring sounds. If someone has these symptoms, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone.

Some substances can be tested for fentanyl with fentanyl testing strips. And many festivals and events may offer drug testing services to reduce risk but it’s important to know that no test can be 100% accurate. 

You can learn more through Fentanyl Aware Lane County by visiting www.fentanylaware.com

Recycling Modernization Act Comes Online To Improve Statewide Recycling System -07/01/25

Today, Oregon’s Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) officially goes into effect after five years of planning and preparation.

The RMA introduces significant changes to how Oregon funds, collects, and recycles packaging, paper, and food serviceware. It also introduces RecycleOn Oregon, a new, trusted source for recycling information.

Over the next few years, local governments, as well as recycling and waste companies across the state, will collaborate with Circular Action Alliance (CAA), the organization selected by the state of Oregon to implement the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program created by the RMA to update the recycling system.

Residents and businesses may notice changes in their recycling services, receive updated information about what can be recycled, and learn more about where the recycled materials end up. The goal is to enable all Oregonians to recycle with confidence and have certainty that their recyclables will find a new life.

“I am excited about what the RMA and RecycleOn Oregon mean for residents across Lane County,” said Jeff Orlandini, Lane County Waste Management Division manager. “For now, we encourage folks to continue recycling as they have been and to follow the new Recycling Guide to know what can be recycled. For residents with curbside service, check with your hauler if you have any specific questions.”

Recycling changes include the addition of food and beverage cartons, delivery pizza boxes, round plastic containers such as margarine tubs, plant pots, and buckets.

Because the law will impact the entire recycling system, some details will be worked out gradually over time, said Angie Marzano, Lane County Waste Reduction Program supervisor.

“While many residents may not notice a massive change in what is and isn’t collected, our rural communities and waste haulers may see some significant differences over the next few years as the law matures,” Marzano said. “Ultimately, this law will help to save natural resources, reduce pollution, and create jobs, which is very exciting.”

For residents and businesses of Lane County, this means recycling cardboard and cartons, paper, plastic, and metal. Glass should be recycled separately in a glass-only bin or brought to a drop-off site. All items must be empty and dry and placed loose into recycling containers. No bagged recyclables.

RecycleOn Oregon Recycling Centers or drop-off locations will become available for stretchy plastics, plastic lids, and other items in the coming months and years.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) selected Circular Action Alliance as the producer responsibility organization to implement the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program created by the RMA. Before the RMA, accepted recyclable materials, recycling services, and collection options for residents varied across the state.

The new law requires producers and manufacturers of packaging, printing and writing paper, and food serviceware to contribute to funding recycling services. That funding will be used to modernize and standardize recycling across the state.

“Oregon is the first state to implement an extended producer responsibility (EPR) law for packaging and paper which intends to make significant improvements to recycling and help the state meet its recycling goals,” says Kim Holmes, executive director of CAA Oregon. “The work done by the state and communities as a result of the RMA will create a modernized system that shares the cost to fund recycling programs, supports innovation and makes recycling easier and more effective for Oregonians.”

For more information about the local recycling program in Lane County, visit lanecountyor.gov/recycle. For more information about the RMA, visit the State's website.

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About Lane County Waste Management Division

The Lane County Waste Management Division oversees the management of solid recycling and solid waste in Lane County. Its mission is to provide, safe, responsible and economical recycling and disposal services, while respecting the environment and communities it serves. Learn more at lanecountyor.gov/waste.

About RecycleOn Oregon

Oregon is taking bold steps to create a more effective and accessible recycling system through the Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA), a groundbreaking law designed to expand access to recycling, reduce contamination and ensure producers take greater responsibility for the materials they create. RecycleOn Oregon is the statewide campaign created by Circular Action Alliance (CAA) with help from local governments, service providers, community members and branding experts to help Oregonians understand, engage with and navigate these changes. CAA is leading education and outreach efforts to help local governments and service providers prepare communities for the upcoming updates, which take effect in July 2025. Learn more at RecycleOn.org/Oregon.

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Lane County Ranks No. 1 On List Of Oregon’s Healthiest Employers For Fifth Year In A Row (Photo) -06/30/25

Lane County has been recognized as the #1 healthiest employer in Oregon (1500-4999 employees) by the Portland Business Journal.

The County’s dedication to wellness: 1) supports the reduction in health care related costs, allowing Lane County to invest more of its limited resources into direct services for the community, and 2) increases employee productivity, engagement, recruitment and retention.

The Live Well Center, Lane County’s employee health and wellness center, continues to help employees maintain and improve their overall wellbeing at a reduced cost to the County. Marathon Health, the operator of the Live Well Center, reported that the County saved 14.8 percent in health care costs for engaged members of the program. Lane County is continuously looking for low-cost, creative, and effective ways of engaging employees in their personal wellbeing. Seventy-six percent of employees engaged in the County’s wellness program showed a decrease in health risks in at least one area of concern.

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized again this year as the healthiest large employer in the state,” said Lane County Chief Human Resources Officer Alana Holmes. “Our efforts to invest in the health and wellbeing of our employees pays dividends in two ways: it helps us better control the rising cost of providing healthcare services as well as helps us take better care of our employees and, in doing so, they can show up and provide the critical services our communities depend upon.”

In 2017, 2018 and 2019, Lane County was ranked third healthiest large employer in Oregon, and in 2018 was listed within the top 100 healthiest employers nationally. In 2020, Lane County was ranked second healthiest larger employer. In 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, Lane County was ranked the #1 healthiest larger employer and in 2022 was listed sixth on the healthiest 100 workplaces in America.

Employers are ranked on six categories which include: culture and leadership commitment, foundational components, strategic planning, communication and marketing, programming and interventions, and reporting and analytics. There are five employer size categories: small (2-99 employees), medium (100-499), large (500-1499), larger (1500-4999), and largest (5000+).

See the announcement from Portland Business Journal.

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Ribbon Cutting On June 27 Celebrates Trail Improvements At Howard Buford Recreation Area -06/26/25

Media partners - I forgot to ask that you not publicize the event ahead of time. The parking lot is really tiny and we're saving that space for you! - Devon

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Lane County Parks and the Friends of Buford Park & Mount Pisgah will hold a ribbon cutting celebrating recent improvements to Trail 3E at Howard Buford Recreation Area on Friday, June 27, at 10:00 a.m.

The project improves accessibility on a popular section of trail and re-routes a portion through the woods to provide more space for ground-nesting birds, helping reduce disturbance in sensitive habitat areas. The result is a more welcoming and accessible trail experience for all visitors.

Media are invited to attend the ribbon cutting. Parking is limited; a map to the East Trailhead parking area on Ridgeway Road is available online. The location of the ribbon cutting is approximately 1,500 feet from the parking area on a well-graded gravel path.

The trail work was led by the Friends of Buford Park, who also secured a state grant to cover much of the cost. Lane County Parks contributed funding through the voter-approved Parks Levy, which helps improve safety, accessibility, and infrastructure throughout the park system.

Who: Lane County Parks and Friends of Buford Park
What: Ribbon cutting for Trail 3E improvements
When: Friday, June 27, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Howard Buford Recreation Area East Trailhead
Why: Celebrate a community partnership improving access and habitat at one of Lane County’s most loved parks

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