Health Options Digest: February 15, 2004

Done Deal or Indefinite Hold?
    Imagine waking up one morning to read the following editorial in The Register-Guard:

    "PeaceHealth CEO Alan Yordy's decision to shelve plans to build a $400-million regional hospital in the Gateway area is cause for neither celebration nor mourning.
    "Fulfilling his responsibilities as the medical system's chief administrative officer, Yordy put the hospital on 'indefinite hold.' In doing so, he cited legal, financial and timing complications that made it impossible to produce a project that would meet the specific requirements of a small group of mega-donors.
    "While it appears PeaceHealth made some key miscalculations early in the planning process, Yordy had no other responsible choice at this juncture. To have allowed the project to proceed would have been the equivalent of a general sending his troops marching boldly off into a minefield.
    "Originally envisioned as a project that was supposed to start construction next year, the hospital had become mired in complications that recently reached critical mass.
    "Looking forward, Yordy is calling on leaders from Eugene, Springfield and Lane County -- and even its competitor, McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center -- to join PeaceHealth in assessing what kind of new medical center where will best serve the public's need for choice in quality, affordable health care in the 21st century..."

    There was such an editorial last Friday, but it was about University of Oregon President Dave Frohnmayer's decision to shelve plans to build a basketball arena. While there are obvious difference between plans to build a $400-million hospital and a $190-million basketball arena, it is perhaps instructive to see how such a "done deal" can unravel almost overnight.
    In the end, it was the increasing cost of the basketball arena and the burden it would place on taxpayers that sunk that deal. In an era when Measure 30 was defeated, when 50,000 people are being dropped from the Oregon Health Plan, and when the federal deficit is over $20,000 for every man, woman and child in the country, one needs to ask where the money for a $400-million hospital would come from -- and what other critical needs would go unfunded as a result.
    (Top...)

Last Week in Review
    The State of Oregon is proposing to amend rules that would make it easier for McKenzie-Willamette Medicial Center to relocate.
    McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center plans to open a cardiac catheterization laboratory. Such a move would like attract doctors and revenues. While the battles over land use, transportation, flooding and the like have gotten much attention, the issues of which doctors perform which procedures where may ultimately be decisive.
    In other news, police officers, jail officials and emergency doctors, are preparing for an increase of acutely mentally ill patients when the Lane County Psychiatric closes at the end of March. But cuts forced by the defeat of Measure 30 may be "penny wise and pound foolish," ultimately costing taxpayers more.
    On the ballot this November, look for an initiative limit attorneys' fees in medical malpractice suits. The skyrocketing cost of medical malpractice insurance is driving some doctors to decline to perform some procedures or even to stop practicing in the state entirely.
    After the Lane County Boundary Commission nixed plans to merge fire districts, Springfield is considering trying to change the rules by amending the Eugene-Springfield Metro Plan. But to do so, they would need the cooperation of Eugene and Lane County, which is sometimes hard to come by. Indeed, the three jurisdictions are struggling to work together to amend portions of the Metro Plan concerned with protecting natural areas.
    Despite recent budget shortfalls, the Lane County Board of Commissioners found funding for a study by the Lane Metro Partnership of where industrial land is available to developers.
    Despite the threat of a presidential veto, the U.S. Senate approved a 6-year transportation funding bill. If signed, the bill could include federal funds earmarked for the I-5/Beltline Interchange, Bus Rapid Transit and other local transportation projects.
    The Oregon League of Conservation Voters just released their scorecard on local elected officials as the election season is heating up.
    With little fanfare, the Register-Guard has shuffled the assignments of their reporters.
    (Top...)

Looking Ahead
    If and when PeaceHealth can build a new hospital at Gateway may come down to when there is funding available to build the required roads. This Thursday, there is a public workshop to answer questions and solicit opinions about which highway projects to fund.
    Think Springfield government could be better? The mayor and four of the six city councilors are up for reelection this May. Applications are available at City Hall.
    Behind the scenes, the attorneys continue to work to resolve legal issues around siting hospitals.
    (Top...)

Rob Zako, Editor
343-5201
rzako@efn.org

Calendar

Tuesday, February 17 -- (Eugene) Civic Facilities Visioning Committee
    3:00 p.m., McNutt Room, City Hall, 777 Pearl St., Eugene
    1. Welcome by Mayor Torrey
    2. Committee Goals
    3. Downtown Space Plan Overview
    4. Partnerships and Joint Use of Facilities
    5. Future Meeting Schedule
    Contact: Glen Svendsen, 682-5008, glen.l.svendsen@ci.eugene.or.us
    (Top...)

Tuesday, February 17 -- Springfield City Council
    6:00 p.m., Work Session, Jesse Maine Room, City Hall, 225 Fifth St., Springfield
    1. Application Review/Re-Appointment of Doug Keeler to the Metropolitan Wastewater Management Commission (MWMC).
    2. Stormwater Management Plan and Submittal of Required Documents to the Department of Environmental Quality.
    3. Proposed Sale of the Springfield Community Center to Catholic Community Services, and Disposition of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Subsidy.
    4. Council Initiation of Amendments to the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area General Plan (Metro Plan) and the Public Facilities and Services Plan (PFSP).

    7:00 p.m., Regular Meeting, Council Meeting Room, City Hall, 225 Fifth St., Springfield
    1. Public Hearing: 2004-2009 Capital Improvement Program.
    2. Public Hearing: Stormwater Management Plan and Submittal of Required Documents to the Department of Environmental Quality.
    3. Public Hearing: Glenwood Water District Withdrawal EC SP 03-28, Monroe Journal Number LRP2003-00035.
    4. Public Hearing: Glenwood Water District Withdrawal C SP 03-31, Shamrock Village Investors/U.S. Bank.
    5. Public Hearing: Glenwood Water District Withdrawal C SP 03-34, Willamette Beverage Company.
    6. Public Hearing: Rainbow Water District Withdrawal EC SP 03-01, PeaceHealth.
    7. Public Hearing: Rainbow Water District Withdrawal EC SP 03-11, McCulloch.
    8. Public Hearing: Rainbow Water District Withdrawal C SP 03-17, Northwood Christian Church.
    9. Public Hearing: Rainbow Water District Withdrawal C SP 03-20, Jacobson.
    10. Public Hearing: Rainbow Water District Withdrawal EC SP 03-57, Grassauer.
    1. Proposed Sale of the Springfield Community Center to Catholic Community Services, and Disposition of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Subsidy.
    1. Hospital Facility Authority Dissolution.

    Contact: Amy Sowa, 726-3700
    (Agenda...) (Top...)

Wednesday, February 18 -- Eugene Budget Committee
    5:30 p.m., Bascom/Tykeson Room, Eugene Public Library, 100 West 10th Ave., Eugene
    1. Public Comment
    2. Debt Policies Action
    3. Parking Fund Update
    4. Stormwater Services Update
    5. Transportation Services Update
    6. Minutes Approval
    7. Budget Process, Committee Process & Requests for Information
    Contact: John Huberd, 682-5386, john.c.huberd@ci.eugene.or.us
    (Top...)

Thursday, February 19 -- Public Workshop on Metro Transportation Priorities
    5-7:30 p.m., Springfield Library Meeting Room, City Hall, 225 5th St., Springfield

    The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) is Oregon's four-year transportation capital improvement program identifying prioritization, funding, and scheduling of transportation projects and programs. It includes projects on the federal, state, city and county transportation systems, multimodal projects (highway, passenger rail, freight, public transit, bicycle and pedestrian), and projects in the National Parks, National Forests and Indian tribal lands. Federal regulations require that each state produce a STIP at least once every two years. Oregon's currently approved program is the 2004-2007 STIP. Development of the 2006-2009 STIP is underway (see timeline).
    The Central Lane Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will host an informal public workshop to present information and collect public comment on the priorities for improvement projects on the State of Oregon road system in the metropolitan area for FY2006-2009.
    Comments may be presented to the MPO at the public workshop or submitted in writing to:

    Paul Thompson
    Lane Council of Governments
    99 East Broadway, Suite 400
    Eugene, OR 97401-3111
    682-4405
    E-mail: MPO@lane.cog.or.us

    The Oregon Transportation Commission is soliciting input from groups throughout the State on priorities for improvements to the road system under state jurisdiction. The Central Lane MPO is considering priorities for the Eugene-Springfield metropolitan area. A public comment period is open through March 11. A public hearing will be held at the Metropolitan Policy Committee meeting on March 11, 2004.
    The MPO is a federally required organization with members from the cities of Eugene, Springfield and Coburg, Lane County, LTD and ODOT. Visit http://www.lcog.org/stip for more information or to sign up for periodic updates on local area transportation plans and public meetings.

    LCOG maintains an e-mail list of citizens who are interested in receiving periodic electronic updates concerning transportation planning in the Central Lane Transportation Management Area. If you would like to be added to this list, please send an email to the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) at LCOG: mpo@lane.cog.or.us.

    Contacts: Thomas Schwetz, Transportation Manager, 682-4044; Paul Thompson, Senior Planner, 682-4405
    (Announcement...) (Top...)

Friday, February 20 -- Eugene City Council
    9:00 a.m., Work Session, Eugene Hilton and Conference Center, 66 East 6th Ave., Eugene
    1. Work Session: 2004-2005 Council Goals/Strategic Planning Session
    Contact: Lynda Rose, 682-5017, lynda.l.rose@ci.eugene.or.us
    (Agenda...) (Top...)

Saturday, February 21 -- Eugene City Council
    Noon, Work Session, Eugene Hilton and Conference Center, 66 East 6th Ave., Eugene
    1. Work Session: 2004-2005 Council Goals/Strategic Planning Session
    Contact: Lynda Rose, 682-5017, lynda.l.rose@ci.eugene.or.us
    (Agenda...) (Top...)

Opportunities

Springfield City Beat: Volunteers wanted

By Bob Keefer
The Register-Guard

February 14, 2004

    A lot of positions are coming open in Springfield local government.
    Springfield residents interested in becoming mayor, city councilor or a director of the Springfield Utility Board can pick up application packets at the City Recorder's Office, Springfield City Hall, 225 Fifth St.
    Five positions are open in the May 18 primary, including wards 1, 3, 4 and 6 and the mayor's job. All are nonpaid, part-time positions with four-year terms. SUB directors will be elected in the general election Nov. 2. Also, the Springfield Historic Commission is looking for two new members. Preference will go to applicants with technical expertise and background in historic preservation, local history, architecture, construction, archeology or preservation-related disciplines.
    Applicants don't need to live in Springfield. Applications are available at the City Manager's Office in City Hall, 225 Fifth St. The application deadline is 3:30 p.m. March 15.
    Finally, the Willamalane Park and Recreation District needs two volunteers for the Whilamut Natural Area of Alton Baker Park Citizen Planning Committee. The committee was originally created to prepare a plan for the 237-acre East Alton Baker Park. Today, volunteers help monitor the implementation of the plan. Members serve three-year terms. The committee meets quarterly, with most of the work done in subcommittee between meetings. Applications are due to Willamalane by March 5.
    For more information or to receive an application, please call Rebecca Gershow at Willamalane at 736-4052 or e-mail rebeccag@willamalane.org.
    (Source...) (Top...)

McKenzie-Willamette/Triad

McKenzie-Willamette's site possibilities broaden

By Jaime Sherman
The Springfield News

February 11, 2004

    McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center officials aren't saying yet where they plan to build a new hospital in the Springfield-Eugene area, but a series of proposed rules concerning hospital siting could soon make it easier for the hospital to relocate.
    At McKenzie-Willamette's request, the state of Oregon is rewording several state rules that would allow the hospital to move to Eugene, an area currently outside its main service area.
    (More...) (Top...)

Hospital set to introduce cardiac care

By Tim Christie
The Register-Guard

February 15, 2004

    SPRINGFIELD -- McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center plans to open a cardiac catheterization laboratory sometime this year, the first step toward providing open heart surgeries -- and a sure way to bring in more revenue.
    Cardiac cath labs have been around for decades, but their numbers have increased in recent years, fueled by new techniques and devices that allow for less invasive treatments of heart disease -- and by the desire of hospitals and doctors to capture market share in a lucrative area of medicine.
    (More...) (Top...)

Hospital Siting

Letter: Resist hospital blackmail

By Joe Daunt, Eugene

February 15, 2004

    The Feb. 8 editorial "The art of the deal" about Eugene's efforts to bring McKenzie-Willamette Hospital to Eugene is a good example of the "we'll do anything" school of thought favored by some when it comes to development in the city of Eugene.
    The editorial demands that the city and taxpayers of Eugene basically do whatever is necessary in order to convince Triad Hospitals, the new owners of McKenzie-Willamette Hospital, to build a new hospital in Eugene. As a for-profit corporation, Triad knows how to wring concessions out of communities, and those who urge the city to do whatever it takes encourage Triad to see the generous incentives already offered by Eugene as simply appetizers for the main dish Triad demands in the end.
    I'm thankful that City Councilors Bonny Bettman, Betty Taylor and David Kelly are aware of the game that Triad and other out-of-town corporations use against communities like Eugene and Springfield. I agree with them that Eugene should do what it reasonably can to bring a hospital to Eugene, but should not be blackmailed into making concessions that don't serve the long-term interests of all.
    When making decisions on this issue, city officials should keep in mind they are setting precedents for future demands by businesses seeking to move here. The city has offered valuable incentives to Triad. Triad shouldn't burn off the goodwill we feel by wresting every last dollar and demand from us it possibly can.
    (Source...) (Top...)

Cost of Health Care

Lane County Prepares For Hospital Closing

The Associated Press

February 9, 2004, 8:55 AM

    EUGENE -- Once the Lane County Psychiatric Hospital closes its doors at the end of March, emergency doctors -- and police officers expect to deal with more mentally ill patients.
    Al Levine manages the county's mental health programs. And he believes there will be a period of -- quote -- "some chaos."
    County officials announced last month plans to close the 12-bed hospital. It serves about 400 acutely mentally ill patients each year.
    They cite ensuing budget cuts ending outpatient mental health benefits for people covered by the Oregon Health Plan's standard coverage.
    Levine says a committee is looking at ways to treat people without hospitalization. They are expected to include ensuring people have a safe place to stay and making home visits.
    (Source...) (Top...)

Hospital closure looms, forces crisis-care alternatives

By Tim Christie
The Register-Guard

February 9, 2004

    Local mental health leaders are developing new community-based treatment for people in crisis once the Lane County Psychiatric Hospital closes its doors for good.
    Police officers, jail officials and emergency doctors, meanwhile, are bracing for a surge of acutely mentally ill patients entering the system when the hospital closes at the end of March.
    (More...) (Top...)

County Beat: Savings may not be what they seem

By Randi Bjornstad
The Register-Guard

February 13, 2004

    Ever heard the old saying, "robbing Peter to pay Paul?" That's what the state proposes to do in the wake of the failure of Ballot Measure 30, the county commissioners warned this week.
    They're planning to send a letter to the state's Emergency Board, urging its members to continue funding mental health and chemical dependency benefits to the Oregon Health Plan Plus, as well as to restore support for gambling addiction services.
    (More...) (Top...)

Doctors hope initiative would limit lawyers' fees

The Associated Press

February 13, 2004, 12:23 AM

    PORTLAND -- The health care industry has raised $1.6 million to put an initiative on the November ballot to limit attorneys' fees in medical malpractice suits.
    The initiative could be among the more expensive in Oregon history, as trial lawyers fight the doctors' attempts to convince the public the attorneys are overpaid.
    (More...) (Top...)

Fire District Merger

Springfield Scrambles for Solutions after Fire Merger Rejected

KEZI

February 6, 2004, 12:10 PM

    After two years in the works, plans to merge the Springfield fire department and the Willakenzie fire district have been extinguished.
    Springfield was depending on the annexation to help save its budget. Now, city leaders are scrambling for a solution.
    The annexation would have allowed the city of springfield to eliminate its fire department, and instead receive fire services through the Willakenzie fire district. That would have freed up city tax money for other services. But now, the city's back at square one.
    Thursday night, the Lane County Local Government Boundary Commission rejected the city of Springfield's annexation request, on grounds that it violates the Eugene-Springfield Metro Plan.
    (More...) (Top...)

Boundary Commission nixes merger

By Jaime Sherman
The Springfield News

February 11, 2004

    Lane County Boundary Commission has struck down the city's plan to get out of the firefighting business.
    The six-member commission voted unanimously last Thursday to deny a request from the city of Springfield to merge with the Willakenzie Fire District, saying the proposal doesn't comply with the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Plan.
    The commissioners acknowledged the city's need to find creative ways to generate revenue -- the merger would have freed up the city's ability to tax residents -- but said they couldn't violate the long-established Metro Plan by approving the annexation.
    (More...) (Top...)

Springfield regrouping after fire merger defeat

By Bob Keefer
The Register-Guard

February 12, 2004

    The future look of Springfield fire protection remains murky a week after city officials suffered swift and unanimous rejection of their plan to save money by cutting the municipal fire department and joining a rural fire district.
    Springfield officials might go to court to save their plan or just plain throw in the towel. But the most frequently mentioned option as of Wednesday was amending Lane County's primary planning document, the Eugene/Springfield Metro Area General Plan. Generally called the Metro Plan, it envisions fire protection as a city service. And that was the problem last week.
    (More...) (Top...)

Nearby Developments

Land Use Plan Draws Reaction

KEZI

February 11, 2004, 12:10 AM

    Changes to land use in Lane County are bringing out strong opinions, as elected officials revise the Metro Plan. Springfield and Eugene City Councilors along with Lane County Commissioners met together Tuesday night to review proposed changes to the Metro Area Land Use Plan.
    It was standing room only at Tuesday night's public meeting. Some residents say the land use plan should be separate for each city and the county. Others are worried about what the proposed changes could mean for their property. "Your proposal to move the designation of Urban Reserve will no doubt make it more difficult, if not impossible to annex our property in the years to come. The value of my land will be diminished if the proposal goes through," said Pleasant Hill Homeowner Steve Ward.
    (More...) (Top...)

County pledges dollars for land study

By Jaime Sherman
The Springfield News

February 13, 2004

    Lane County has agreed to participate financially in a study aimed at attracting new business.
    Commissioners voted 4-1 Wednesday to contribute up to $12,500 to fund a Lane Metro Partnership review of the county's available industrial land for potential developers.
    Commissioner Peter Sorenson voted against the motion because he said the county doesn't have money for required studies, citing the Natural Resources Study as an example.
    (More...) (Top...)

Clarion makes room for Best Buy

By Christopher Stollar
The Springfield News

February 13, 2004

    The Clarion Hotel will soon have full vacancy, but ironically no rooms will be available.
    The Springfield hotel at 3280 Gateway St. will house its last guest on March 27, paving way for Best Buy and other potential retailers.
    (More...) (Top...)

Urban Renewal to Divert $40 Million

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

    Just a week after the failure of Measure 30 threw state school funding into fiscal meltdown, the Eugene City Council is proceeding forward with a plan to divert an estimated $40 million from state school funding and local government services.
    The council held a hearing Feb. 9 on its push to add 25 acres to the Riverfront Urban Renewal District and continue it for 20 years.
    (More...) (Top...)

City mulls bigger tax break area

By Edward Russo
The Register-Guard

February 12, 2004

    Martin Henner and a like-minded group of people have a dream to live in downtown Eugene, but they are looking for a break to help make it happen: a property tax break.
    Eugene City Council members are considering whether to greatly expand the area where builders of new downtown apartments and condominiums would get 10-year property tax breaks. City officials are considering the expansion because they want to promote housing downtown, figuring that more residents would revitalize the city center.
    (More...) (Top...)

Wal-Mart files plans for grocery

By Joe Mosley
The Register-Guard

February 11, 2004

    A certain big box on West 11th Avenue is poised to become a GREAT-BIG box.
    Wal-Mart has filed a site-review plan with the city of Eugene to expand its existing discount store into a "supercenter" by adding a full-scale grocery store.
    At a total of 217,951 square feet, the place would become not only Lane County's first supercenter but the county's largest retail store of any kind.
    (More...) (Top...)

Council approves purchase of parcel

By Edward Russo
The Register-Guard

February 12, 2004

    A divided Eugene City Council on Wednesday gave the green light to buy industrial land and buildings for expanding the city's Public Works Department maintenance yard and offices.
    Councilors voted 5-3 in a work session to let the Public Works Department borrow money from internal funds so it can spend $1.625 million for the 4.79 acres on North Garfield Street, next to the department's complex on Roosevelt Boulevard.
    Public Works officials have said they want the property, owned by the local Giustina family, because it would meet their expansion needs at the yard for at least the next 20 years.
    (More...) (Top...)

Development Report: Nostalgic niceties proposed for apartments

By Diane Dietz
The Register-Guard

February 10, 2004

    Eugene developer Kent Jennings is at work on another high-end project: a 29-unit apartment complex with nostalgic touches on an old fruit orchard in north-central Eugene. Jennings is naming his project "The Farm."
    Add this venture to a portfolio that includes a partnership that will build 40 luxury condominiums in downtown Eugene this summer. Then factor Jennings' previous work, including top-of-the-line units in the Kentfield Apartments on Country Club Road that rent for more than $1,100 a unit.
    (More...) (Top...)

Basketball Arena

New Arena on Hold

By Craig Sklar
KVAL

February 11, 2004

    EUGENE -- A replacement for Mac Court is on hold indefinitely. University of Oregon President Dave Frohnmayer says the plan is just too expensive and falls short of the school's vision for a new arena.
    It comes down to uncertain funding and a lot of unanswered questions. Now it's not clear when the arena will be built or what compromises the school will have to make when the times comes to break ground. The decision was really made two weeks ago. No ground breaking this summer.
    There is no word on when it will ever be built, or at what cost. "I don't think it's appropriate to talk about the price tag, it's appropriate to talk about the need," says University President Dave Frohnmayer.
    (More...) (Top...)

UO Arena On Hold

By Dawn Marie Woodward
KVAL

February 11, 2004

    EUGENE -- University of Oregon President Dave Frohnmayer today announced that he has placed the planned new basketball arena on indefinite hold.
    "Review of the project -- its scope, its complexity and financing -- make it clear that we cannot move forward at this point," said Frohnmayer.
    The action to suspend work on the proposed new arena has been taken after full consultation, and agreement, with the donors involved with the project.
    "I remain committed to our common goal of creating a premier facility for generations to come," continued Frohnmayer.
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University of Oregon Puts Basketball Arena On Hold

KEZI

February 11, 2004, 11:35 AM

U of O Basketball Arena on Hold

KEZI

February 11, 2004, 4:10 PM

    It was one of the most talked about projects on campus, replacing "The Pit" with a 400,000 square foot sports arena. Just last week, the arena appeared to be on track to break ground this summer. Student Katie Gribling told us, "Oh, it would be so cool. I've been in Mac Court and its kind of rickety, so to have a new arena would be great."
    For students, like Gribling and others, the debate over the project began once we asked about the price tag, which rose to more than $180 million dollars. Student Judith Friedman told us, "This is a sports school, it's a PAC 10 school, and the academics are sort of thrown out the window sometimes." But U of O Senior Scott Nichols said, "It seems like it's a good investment, because sports attracts a lot of attention to the school."
    A few days later, that investment is now on hold. The University says the money just wasn't there to build what it wanted. President Dave Frohnmayer, at a press conference Wednesday morning, explained "We feel the project, its scope, its complexity, and its financing, made it clear that we can't move forward at this point."
    (More...) (Top...)

Students React to Arena Delay

KEZI

February 11, 2004, 5:55 PM

Students at the University of Oregon are reacting to the latest news that the new arena has been placed on hold. Students we spoke to are happy Maccarthur Court will stay open a little longer. We did find a few that were hoping for that new arena. The news caught some students by surprise. But, many were happy to hear Mac Court would still be around.
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UO shelves plans for basketball arena

By Greg Bolt
The Register-Guard

February 12, 2004

    The University of Oregon has dropped its plan to build what might have been the most expensive college basketball arena in the country, citing the increasing cost and complexity of the project.
    UO President Dave Frohnmayer announced Wednesday that the arena has been put on "indefinite hold" and said there is no longer an active project on the table or a timeline for building it. He said the need to secure state bonds to pay a portion of a price tag estimated at $190 million had introduced uncertainties and potential delays that made it impossible to deliver the project as envisioned.
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No UO Arena

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

As EW was going to press Wednesday, UO President Dave Frohnmayer announced he has put plans for the controversial new $180 million basketball arena on indefinite hold. Frohnmayer cited problems with arena's "scope, complexity and financing," but said he remains "committed to our common goal of creating a premier facility." The decision was made after consultation with the projects' donors. No information was available regarding whether a major donor had pulled out.
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Fans, Neighbors React To U.O. Arena Delay

By Jennifer Winters
KVAL

February 12, 2004

EUGENE -- Some neighbors of the University of Oregon are applauding the decision to put off building a new basketball arena. But many fans worry the "indefinite hold" will really mean "never."
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Collapse of arena project may mark record for lost donation

By Greg Bolt
The Register-Guard

February 13, 2004

    The University of Oregon isn't going to have the most expensive basketball arena in the country, but it may still have a record.
    The UO, which pulled the plug on a potential $180 million arena project Wednesday, may have lost one of the largest donations in collegiate history when it had to walk away from what was expected to be $130 million in private funding for the project.
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Editorial: An arena on ice: Frohnmayer had no responsible alternative

The Register-Guard

February 13, 2004

    University of Oregon President Dave Frohnmayer's decision to shelve plans to build a $190 million basketball arena is cause for neither celebration nor mourning.
    Fulfilling his responsibilities as the university's chief administrative officer, Frohnmayer put the arena on "indefinite hold." In doing so, he cited financial and timing complications that made it impossible to produce a project that would meet the specific requirements of a small group of mega-donors.
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Bob Welch: UO did right in postponing arena project

By Bob Welch, Columnist
The Register-Guard

February 15, 2004

    The morning after the University of Oregon called a sudden timeout while on its fast break toward building the country's most expensive college basketball arena, something notable happened:
    The sun came up -- in fact, more gloriously on Thursday than it has in months. That's not a "ding-dong-the-witch-is-dead" suggestion; anybody who's stumbled across this column the past few years knows I love Duck sports.
    But President Dave Frohnmayer's decision to put the project on "indefinite hold" is no death knell for UO basketball. Instead, it's an appropriate reality check for us all.
    (More...) (Top...)

Transportation

Oregon would gain $530 million if highway bill is law

The Associated Press

February 12, 2004, 6:01 PM

    WASHINGTON -- Oregon would get an added $530 million in federal highway money over six years if a $318 billion bill passed Thursday night by the Senate becomes law, Sen. Ron Wyden's office said.
    However, President Bush is threatening to veto any such bill much above its proposed $256 billion cap.
    The state would get nearly $2.6 billion over the period, a 27 percent increase.
    The money is in addition to a $2.5 billion package of bonds for bridge and highway repairs over 10 years passed by the last Oregon Legislature.
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Senate OKs road funds far above Bush limit

By Jim Abrams
The Associated Press

February 13, 2004

    WASHINGTON -- Defying a presidential veto threat, the Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly approved a highway spending bill that would bring jobs and billions of dollars in new construction money to states across the country.
    The Republican-controlled Senate voted 76-21 to pass a six-year, $318 billion highway and mass transit spending bill, replacing the current six-year program that expires at the end of this month. The vote margin would be enough to override a possible presidential veto.
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Letter: Bus Fair

By John A. Hickam, Eugene

February 12, 2004

    Those who know LTD know from "Bus Talk" fliers that the system is hurting. A $2 million budget shortfall over the next three years is anticipated.
    The impact? Consider more Talk: "Service Reductions Anticipated ... substantial ... in Fall 2004" and "more dramatically in Fall 2005." That was the Talk of December. January's has devolved the alarm a little. This year may not be so bad but "more significant ... cuts will take place in fall 2005 if conditions have not improved." What "conditions"? Could Measure 30 passage help? Will the largely conservative LTD establishment ever get liberalized and activated to our benefit? Are we beyond the point where fare increases could help?
    Anyone who rides and knows the routes knows how to translate Bus Talk: The routes which will suffer will involve the many neighborhoods where low-income, senior, disabled, and young frequently unemployed riders depend upon the bus to get to affordable shopping centers, libraries, friends and relatives who may need our help, and such jobs as yet remain.
    UO and LCC will continue to be served. LCC will have new articulated long buses and Duck shuttles will shuttle. The new BRT, completed, will delight commuters but get no one closer to needed groceries, diapers or toothpaste. Personnel whose employers contract with LTD at discount rates will probably continue to enjoy expresses to park-and-rides and the more distant suburbs. It's all OK. Less polluting buses online that get people out of their vehicles will be lung-beneficial.
    But let's not forget the needs of those who have less change in their pockets. Talk back to LTD by mail and, in February and March, in public hearings.
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City approves plan for capital improvements

The Springfield News

February 11, 2004

    Springfield City Council has tentatively approved the Capital Improvement Program for 2004 through 2009.
    The plan prioritizes the city's capital improvement projects for the next five years. The projects include the Laura Street realignment, Martin Luther King Parkway construction and trunk sewer, Harlow pump station expansion, Franklin Boulevard sewer and drainage crossings and sidewalks in Glenwood, Jasper Road extension, Jasper trunk line sewer, South 32nd and Main streets intersection im-provements, Mountaingate drainage project, South 42nd Street improvement from Main Street to Jasper Road and sewer lines to Grandview Estates.
    Money for the projects will come from the Oregon Transportation Investment Act III, Lane County, gas tax revenue and new Surface Transportation Program funding.
    During the five-year period, $350,000 to $475,000 will be spent each year on street sealing and overlays.
    The public will have an opportunity to comment on the plan during a hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at City Hall.
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Mountain Being Built Next To I-5

By Pat McGillivray
KVAL

February 11, 2004

    EUGENE -- Drivers on I-5 can now see the work on temporary bridges over the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers. The $29 million dollar fast-track project is rising up next to the freeway.
    300 dump trucks a day will be parading through for the next week or so, hauling in 15,000 cubic yards of river rock, enough to build up a road bed for the detour that will lead I-5 traffic to temporary bridges now under construction. The Department of Transportation expects to have the temporary bridges over the Willamette and McKenzie complete by the fall. They are only supposed to be used until permanent structures can be built, which could be a decade away. "These bridges are definitely here for the 10 years," says Jeff Payne, ODOT's Project Manager. "They could be here for longer if necessary."
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Elections

Briefly: Conservation voters give boards mixed reviews

The Register-Guard

February 11, 2004

    The majority of the Eugene City Council flunked the test on 10 key environmental votes in the past two years, according to the Oregon League of Conservation Voters, which also found that Lane County's Board of Commissioners become more friendly toward the environment.
    Eugene councilors Betty Taylor, Bonny Bettman and David Kelly received 100 percent ratings for their votes on storm water protection, toxics disclosure, the West Eugene Parkway and other issues, but councilors Scott Meisner and Nancy Nathanson scored just 10 percent, the OLCV said. Councilors Gary Pape, Jennifer Solomon and George Poling scored zero, the group said.
    Lane County commissioners boosted their overall average voting score to 60 percent on 11 key votes, up from 39 percent in the previous rating period, the OLCV said.
    Peter Sorensen and former Commissioner Tom Lininger received 100 percent ratings, the group said. Bill Dwyer got a "respectable" 63 percent rating, and Bobby Green rated "poorly," with 36 percent, the OLCV said. Commissioner Anna Morrison scored zero.
    Newly appointed Commissioner Don Hampton did not have enough of a voting record for a rating.
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OLCV Scorecards Spotlight Voting

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

    Two environmental scorecards released this week by the Lane County Chapter of the Oregon League of Conservation Voters (OLCV), document the voting records of Lane County Commissioners and Eugene city councilors during the past two years. While the County Commission showed improvement, the City Council showed slippage.
    The Eugene council received a failing grade, averaging 41 percent on 10 key votes. The commission averaged 60 percent on 11 key votes, up from a poor 39 percent in the prior scorecard. The scorecards assign a rating to each decision-maker on votes that affect whether our region remains a beautiful and healthy place to life.
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Editorial: Sorenson and Dwyer: go to the head of the class

The Springfield News

February 13, 2004

    Scorecards and report cards are popular items in today's arena, and the Oregon League of Conservation Voters has issued its version on the environmental records of Lane County commissioners.
    And like the most extreme version of a classroom bell curve, the report card reveals a mixed bag. Tracking voting records for the past two years, local commissioners showed some overall improvement over previous years.
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Betty Taylor Files for Council Re-run

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

Eugene City Councilor Betty Taylor, representing Ward 2, has filed for re-election. Ward 2 is in south and southeast Eugene, bordered by Chambers on the west and 28th and 30th avenues on the north.
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Slant: Betty Taylor's Opponent

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

City Councilor Betty Taylor finally has an opponent in the May primary. Maurie Denner has filed a preliminary petition for Ward 2. Denner is a long-time member of the Police Commission and the principal of Washington Elementary. He's planning to retire from education this year after 35 years. On the county front, will real estate broker and civil rights activist Betty Snowden run against Pete Sorenson for his commission seat? We may hear an announcement soon.
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UO Student Runs for City Council Position

KEZI

February 12, 2004, 5:55 PM

20-year-old Adam Walsh knew he always wanted to be in politics. The U of O sophomore is running for a city council position in Eugene. His only political experience was back in high school, where he served as class president. But this ambitious student has big hopes for a real-life political career.
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Slant: Pat Farr

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

State Rep. Pat Farr somehow got hired last week to run FOOD for Lane County, selected over people who have much more relevant experience. We're not sure how that happened and what the results will be, but having Farr drop out of the Legislature is a comforting thought. His atrocious environmental voting record on the City Council carried over to House District 14. We expect some last-minute filings for the open seat. Araminta Hawkins would be a strong contender on the Democratic side. If she chooses to run, she would face Farr's wife, Debi, who will try to keep the seat in the family.
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Lane commissioner rules out Senate run

By Randi Bjornstad
The Register-Guard

February 10, 2004

Lane County Commissioner Anna Morrison said Monday that despite encouragement from supporters, she has decided not to give up her post to run for a vacant Oregon Senate seat this year.
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GOP candidate files in District 13

By David Steves
The Register-Guard

February 10, 2004

SALEM -- The race for a northeastern Eugene House seat took a sharper focus Monday when political newcomer and Republican Gary Pierpoint announced plans to challenge veteran Rep. Bob Ackerman, D-Eugene.
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Other News

Slant: Register-Guard

Eugene Weekly

February 12, 2004

What's happening in the newsroom at the old R-G? Nobody's talking and the website listings haven't changed, but we noticed Karen McCowan's by-line on a Junction City council story. That can't be much fun for a veteran news feature writer. We hear Margaret Haberman, the only woman in editorial management, is no longer city editor and is now just one of several "team leaders." And who's covering the environment? Looks like no one in particular. Scott Maben was becoming a seasoned enviro and energy reporter, but looks like he's been reassigned. We hope the R-G's already scanty natural resources coverage isn't further diminished in this apparent reorganization.
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