I first came to Eugene to attend the University of Oregon, and like so many others, I quickly fell in love with the tree-lined streets, vibrant local shops, and the rich cultural life that makes this city so special. Though my husband and I had to leave for a time due to limited job opportunities, we always knew Eugene was where we wanted to raise our family. We returned just in time for our oldest child to start kindergarten in the 4J School District, and we’ve proudly called Eugene home ever since.

I’ve always taught my children that when something matters to you, you find a way to contribute. That belief inspired me to get involved with our local neighborhood association, Harlow Neighbors, and led to over a decade of active community advocacy.

In 2017, I was honored to be appointed to represent Ward 4 on the Eugene City Council. Since then, I’ve worked hard to be a strong and consistent advocate for our neighborhoods, our families, and the future we’re building together.

Jennifer on the issues

Affordable Housing & homelessness

I understand how critical the need for affordable housing is in Eugene. As your City Councilor, I’ve been a strong advocate for policies that support low-income families and protect renters. I’ve pushed the Council to fully embrace Oregon’s new zoning laws and middle housing code amendments as tools to address our housing shortage. This includes advocating for budget support for affordable housing projects and championing zoning changes that allow diverse housing options in our neighborhoods, like tiny homes, cottage clusters, and 4-plexes.

Public Safety 

As your City Councilor and a member of the Police Commission, I believe that public safety is a fundamental responsibility of local government. I support providing our police, courts, and first responders with the resources they need to keep our community safe and respond effectively when help is needed. At the same time, I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and meaningful oversight. Building trust between the community and law enforcement is essential to a just and effective public safety system.

Environment 

As a parent, I’m deeply committed to creating sustainable, environmentally responsible policies that will protect Eugene for generations to come. As your City Councilor, I’ve supported bold action to combat the climate crisis. I also support strong protections for our residential neighborhoods from industrial impacts, preserving farmland for future generations, and safeguarding our air and water from polluters. Environmental stewardship isn’t just a goal, it’s a responsibility we owe to our children and our community.

Transit

I believe everyone deserves access to a safe, reliable, and inclusive transportation system. Whether they drive, take the bus, walk, bike, or use a wheelchair or other mobility device. As your City Councilor, I’ve advocated for more affordable and accessible transportation options, including expanding our pedestrian and bike infrastructure and advocacy with LTD for increased transit service. I also helped secure funding for street repairs in much needed areas of North Eugene including long needed improvements to part of Coburg Rd. Keeping our transportation system in good condition benefits safety of our entire community.

Community Voice 

I care deeply about this community, both from my roots as a local leader in the Harlow Neighborhood and now as your City Councilor representing Northeast Eugene. I’ve always worked to bring people together and ensure your voices are heard on the issues that matter most. That’s why I pushed for the creation of the Healthy Democracy panel, which gave community members a stronger role in shaping housing policy, helped establish an ad hoc committee focused on recommending thoughtful improvements to police policy, and supported the recent advisory group on our city budget. Ward 4 deserves a clear, consistent voice at the table and I’m here to make sure you have it.

Education 

As a mom with children who attended Eugene public schools, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges our schools face. As a neighborhood activist, I helped launch Feed Hope, a program supporting students experiencing food insecurity, and I’ve been a strong advocate for Safe Routes to School, which helps kids stay active, confident, and safe on their way to and from school. I believe the City of Eugene must continue to strengthen its partnerships with both 4J and Bethel school districts—because when our schools thrive, our whole community benefits. I’ll keep fighting to secure funding for our libraries and other city programming that supports students and their families. 

Parks

As your City Councilor, I was proud to help secure funding for the new Usmo Park, which opened in 2023. This 8-acre park offers a large playground, restrooms, walking paths, picnic shelter, sports courts, a recreational water feature to cool off in during the summer, and even an informal amphitheater for community gatherings. Parks like Usmo are more than just green spaces, they’re essential for our physical and mental well-being. They provide places for families to connect, kids to play, neighbors to gather, and everyone to enjoy the outdoors. Investing in parks is investing in the health and happiness of our community and I will continue to advocate for our area for equitable access to green spaces.