Churchill veteran declares for East Lane commissioner seat

Former Marine and policy analyst Jake Pelroy announced his candidacy Nov. 5 for East Lane county commissioner, District 5.

Pelroy, a Lane County native, joined the U.S. Marines in 2005, serving three combat tours in Iraq. After leaving the military, he dedicated himself to serving his community through public policy.

“Lane County is facing real challenges right now—from the high cost of living that forces families to move, public safety issues that make our communities less safe, and a dysfunctional county bureaucracy that hurts small businesses and workers. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work for Lane County, starting day one,” Pelroy said. “I began my career as a trash hauler right here in Lane County. I understand that working families are the backbone of our community. They deserve a voice in county government who will advocate for them.” 

Jake currently serves as the president of the Lane County Garbage and Recycling Association. There he’s fighting to protect resident’s garbage bills from the current county commission majority who wants to continue to raise them with their massive new $174 million garbage facility.

Jake launches his campaign with strong community support. 

“I’ve known Jake Pelroy for several years,” said state Rep. Darin Harbick. “He’s a devoted family man who has served our country with honor. His post-military service reflects his continued passion for serving his neighbors. I can’t speak highly enough about him. Kail and I are proud to endorse him.”

“Some County commissioners have placed their focus on a massive, poorly planned, and wasteful garbage project while crucial public safety investments remain under addressed,” said Cottage Grove Mayor Candace Solesbee. “We find ourselves in a position where we cannot afford another four years of this type of mismanagement. Jake Pelroy brings a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach. His intellectual understanding of the intricacies of the job, and his loyal commitment to the people of Lane County are needed on the board to rectify this situation.” 

Jake lives in the Churchill neighborhood of Eugene with his wife Kelly and their two boys, Graham and Marcus. Pelroy’s website is www.Pelroy.com.

East Lane County, District 5 encompasses the cities of Cottage Grove, Creswell, Coburg, Oakridge, Lowell, Westfir, portions of Southwest Eugene, and the unincorporated communities of Goshen, Pleasant Hill, Dexter, Walterville, Blue River, McKenzie Bridge, and Marcola.