One of the people who stepped up to the challenge was Herman Kehrli, Director of the League of Oregon Cities, who stated, "Invention of an entirely new governmental agency will probably be necessary before the suburban areas can be provided with services in a systematic and economical way." Civic leaders defined the need for a new intergovernmental structure to:

• Provide and maintain infrastructure to the urban fringe
• Establish guidelines for school location with population growth
• Conduct planning surveys with local organizations (in this region within a 6-mile radius of Eugene City Hall)

By 1944, the new planning council was already planning the development of a post-war job program, working towards adoption of a capital improvement program for construction of sewage treatment facilities, and initiating a comprehensive planning program. A March 3, 1944 article in Yank magazine reported that, "Without letting up on the war effort, the planning council is working out a strategy for winning the peace." And, "the council is doing its share in the building of a new and better America."

Lane Council of Governments was defining the course of its development over the next 60 years and beyond. 

(return to history page)