Event

BEST organizes happy hours with Eugene City Council candidates

April 25, 2024

BEST’s Cycle of Change group of transportation activists is organizing a series of happy hours with candidates in contested races for Eugene City Council.

UPDATE 5/6/24: We are pleased to be able to schedule a second Ward 7 happy hour so that Lyndsie Leech can participate.

UPDATE 5/2/24: Based on feedback we have been receiving and the realities of public spaces, we are planning these events to be less formal candidates forums and more informal happy hours.

During May is Bike Month and in advance of the May 21 primary election, BEST’s Cycle of Change group of transportation activists is organizing a happy hour for each contested race for Eugene City Council:

  • Ward 1: Ethan Clevenger, Ted Coopman, Eliza Kashinsky
    Thursday, May 2, 2024
    3:00–5:00 pm: Arrive early for happy hour
    5:00–6:00 pm: Candidates transportation forum
    Cornucopia, 295 West 17th Avenue
  • Ward 7: Barbie Walker
    Note: Lyndsie Leech had a last-minute conflict and asked for a rain check on May 15
    Friday, May 3, 2024
    4:00–5:00 pm
    Happy Hours, 645 River Road
  • Ward 2: Matt Keating
    Note: Lisa Warnes is unfortunately unavailable but we are offering her a rain check on another date
    Friday, May 10, 2024
    4:00–5:00 pm
    Drop Bear Brewery, 2690 Willamette Street

As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit, BEST does not support or oppose any candidate for elected office.

Rather these happy hours are intended to be fun social events that also educate members of the public and candidates about key transportation issues affecting our community. Attendees will have a chance to speak informally with each candidate in a small group.

Everyone and all points of view are welcome. Please share your concerns and also listen to and be respectful of others. Thank you.

Note that the Cycle of Change suggests a few optional questions to discuss:

  1. What do you see as the most critical transportation issues facing Eugene?
  2. What responsibility, if any, does the City have to serve the needs of people who cannot or choose not to drive?
  3. What are the reasons, if any, to provide public transportation and, if so, what kinds of options do you want to see?
  4. How do you think the City’s Vision Zero goal of no deaths or life-changing injuries on our streets relates to other transportation and community goals, such as reducing congestion or supporting economic development?
  5. What do you see as reasons to support or oppose the City’s goal to triple the percentage of trips by foot, bicycle, or public transportation by the year 2035?
  6. Beyond the ongoing bond measures to repair Eugene’s streets, how interested are you in public funding to repair sidewalks, which are currently the responsibility of property owners?

The forums are inspired by the weekly Bike Happy Hours in Portland. Although attendees are encouraged to arrive by bike, we won’t be checking for helmets at the door! 🚴‍♀️😉

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