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~ctrr~ suN~r? <br /> he recent history of the River Road and Santa Clara (River Road Santa Clara) neighborhoods is <br /> T characterized by patchwork annexation, fragmented urban services, and a contentious relationship- <br /> between residents of the area and the City of Eugene. The River Road and Santa Clara Urban <br /> Services Committees formed in an effort to review and make recommendations concerning the myriad of <br /> <br /> urban service problems facing River Road and Santa Clara. The committees identified four major <br /> themes which must be recognized before problem-solving can begin: <br /> TRUST <br /> The lack of trust by many residents of River Road Santa Clara toward the City stems partially from the <br /> bitter debate in the 1980s over sewer development in the area. As the population of River Road and <br /> Santa Clara increases and diversifies, the City has the opportunity to repair and rebuild its relationship <br /> with residents. <br /> VOICE <br /> Lane County has transferred planning, land use, and building permitting to the City. Although the City <br /> is responsible for planning in River Road and Santa Clara, no one on the City Council represents the <br /> interests of County residents. County residents in River Road and Santa Clara are frustrated by a lack of <br /> political representation in City government. <br /> EQUITY <br /> City residents in River Road and Santa Clara do not receive the same level of urban services as residents <br /> in other areas of the City. This is particularly apparent in library, recreation, and fire services in Santa <br /> Clara, where the majority of City residents live. <br /> COLLABORATION <br /> Another concern is the lack of active collaboration between the River Road Santa Clara residents and <br /> local government in managing growth and preserving neighborhoods. Communication between <br /> residents, elected officials, and public employees is minimal and does not adequately address the variety <br /> of problems in the area. <br /> Committee Recommendations <br /> The above issues are complex and deeply rooted in the history of the area. Committee members feel that <br /> a holistic, long-term solution to the wide array of problems is critical. When discussing the future of the <br /> area, almost all committee members agree that eventually the area will be part of the City of Eugene. <br /> How long this will take is not clear. Some committee members are already in the City, some would <br /> choose to join the City tomorrow, and others hope to never in their lifetime see the area become part of <br /> Eugene. Regardless of the time scale, almost all committee members agree that a plan for transitioning <br /> to the City of Eugene is necessary. <br /> 3 <br /> <br />