Measure 20-59 — Yes

While we would rather see money going to crime prevention than to jails, this measure serves to expand the intake center and medical services space, not the jail’s general housing. An improvement to the intake center would allow arrested persons to be processed more quickly, increase efficiency in delivering medical services and enhance security for staff and inmates.

Measure 20-60 — Yes

The current sheriff radios are extremely outdated and provide limited-to-nonexistent two-way communication in significant parts of Lane County. Law enforcement, emergency services and public works agencies are not able to connect. This measure would improve emergency response in rural and wilderness areas, which is a basic right.

Measure 20-61 — Yes

This measure, to improve disabled access to the courthouse, should have been approved a long time ago. As is, the courthouse is not directly accessible to many seniors or people with disabilities, medical conditions or strollers. Approving the measure allows for a single-level entry and faster access to public records and licensing procedures.

Measure 20-62 — No

While we like parks and do see the need for improvement, this measure has too many flaws. It costs nearly $30 million to build boat, RV and horse facilities that would benefit few taxpayers. And we want to see money for acquiring and protecting new natural areas.

Measure 20-63 — Yes

We need to support our community’s public health and social services. The current public health building is 50 years old, and listen to all it houses: communicable disease control, bioterrorism planning, HIV counseling and testing, prenatal care and family planning. This measure would build a new facility to house these essential services.

Measure 20-65 — Yes

With WISTEC still on shaky ground, a new planetarium and learning center are essential to local science education. This measure would buy that, and a privately funded endowment will be raised to cover any operating deficits, so it won’t fall on tax payers. A new planetarium would be a great attraction and help supplement our underfunded schools.