Community Leaders Honored at LCOG Appreciation Event

The Lane Council of Governments (LCOG) held its Annual Member Appreciation Event on Friday, March 5th virtually via Zoom, a first for this event. More than 60 elected and appointed officials, business and community members, and public employees from across Lane County attended, which highlighted local accomplishments. U.S. Senator Ron Wyden gave a special message of appreciation. The event also acknowledged the challenges and humor of remote work life this past year, with a video montage of “bloopers” from local government online meetings.

Click here to watch a recording of the event.
https://vimeo.com/522546907

Each year, LCOG celebrates regional accomplishments for the prior year and recognizes Elected Officials, Public Employees, Citizens, Intergovernmental Teams, Economic Enhancement work, and those that have dedicated their lives to public service. After careful consideration, the LCOG Executive Committee chose to recognize the following for their outstanding work and contributions to our region.

The annual award for Outstanding Elected Official was given to Lane County Sheriff Cliff Harrold. The Outstanding Citizen Award was presented to Melanie Stanley, for her work and contributions to the community as the “Unofficial Mayor” of Blue River. Richard Meyers was recognized as the Outstanding Public Employee for his exemplary performance and service as the City Manager of Cottage Grove. The award for Outstanding Public Career was presented to Pete Sorenson, who served as a Lane County Commissioner for more than two decades.

The award for Outstanding Intergovernmental Team went to the 17 Holiday Farm Fire Agencies for their work in responding to the wildfire that heavily impacted the McKenzie River Valley in September 2020. Accepting the award on behalf of the agencies was Sheriff Harrold.

Also recognized was Austin Ramirez who received the Regional Award of Merit for Economic Enhancement. Mr. Ramirez was recognized for his dedication and advocacy on behalf of economic development in the region.