04/01/1985 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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- e - Ms. Brown read from "Science for the Peop1e" about occupational illnesses caused by the production of semi-conductors. She also read from "Does Khaki Become You (The Militarization of Women)" about the employment of women as assembly plant workers in California. She said the high tech industry may move production overseas, but she did not want Eugene's economy to be dependent on the exploitation of workers in other parts of the world who are poisoned by high tech industries. She urged public discussion of the issues she presented. Ms. Brown said the conditional use permit for Costco Corporation was probably denied because the company would compete with companies already here. It seemed the planned economic development for Eugene would benefit only a few people. She asked the council to consider the Eugene Agenda carefully. Jim Saul, 2780 Elinor, supported the Eugene Agenda. He said it merges the community's economic development planning with the capital improvement planning process. Coordination is important because economic development will require capital improvements. Mr. Saul said the community will support the improvements to the transportation system if they are approached in a sensitive, positive way. He offered to assist in gaining support from the State and other sources. Thomas Gilbert, 1451 Waite, applauded the bold vision in the Eugene Agenda. He said it will leave a positive legacy. It must be supported by the citizens, but support is doubtful now because the agenda does not contain something for average citizens. Mr. Gilbert said a larger library is vital to the community and citizens will support the agenda if the expansion of the library is added to it. Dave Pedersen, P.O. Box 10543, represented the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce. He supported the Eugene Agenda. He said Chamber of Commerce members have studied the Riverfront University Science Park and have promoted support for it among legislators. Chamber of Commerce members also support the airport expansion and transportation improvements. They have worked for freight rate equity between Eugene and Portland. Mr. Pedersen said the revitalization of the downtown and the beautification program are important. Chamber of Commerce representatives worked on the Downtown Plan. Members realize the perception of Eugene's entrances by potential new residents is important. Mr. Pedersen said the Eugene Agenda is the Chamber of Commerce's agenda. He pledged support for the five elements. Laksar Geer, 707 West 12th, opposed the opening of Willamette Street from 10th Avenue to 11th Avenue because the money could be better spent elsewhere. He said the street people will move wherever the plasma centers are moved. Larry Hughes, 340 Banton, said much energy has been wasted in the last ten years because Eugeneans have argued about growth and many other things. He sees the Eugene Agenda as a positive goal because it will make Eugene a good place to raise a family. The transportation systems need to be up-graded, Mr. Hughes said. He also said the University of Oregon is the most positive, visible entity in Lane County and the City should cooperate with the MINUTES-Eugene City Council April 1, 1985 Page 3