Eugene Names Three Finalists for City Manager; Public Interviews Scheduled

Eugene officials revealed three finalists for the city manager post on Jan. 6, setting the stage for a consequential decision by the City Council. The appointment follows the retirement of Sarah Medary, who left after a 30-year career with the city. The city manager oversees day-to-day operations of city government and manages a large workforce and budget, making the council’s choice pivotal for service delivery and policy implementation.

The finalists bring a mix of external and internal experience. Martha Bennett currently serves as city manager of Lake Oswego. Jenny Haruyama serves as city manager of Beaverton. Matt Rodrigues is Eugene’s interim city manager and previously led the city’s public works department. The announcement stressed each finalist’s public-sector experience and framed the council’s selection as a consequential choice for Eugene’s near-term governance and long-term direction.

Public interviews are scheduled for Jan. 13 in City Council Chambers. Those sessions will offer councilors and residents a direct opportunity to assess candidates’ management philosophies, priorities for municipal services, and approaches to workforce and budgetary challenges. Because the city manager executes policies set by elected officials, the selection will influence how council priorities are translated into day-to-day operations, how major projects are managed, and how the workforce is organized and supported.

For residents, the decision matters beyond personnel. The city manager’s leadership affects core services such as infrastructure maintenance, permitting, public works, and emergency response capacity. It also shapes how the city navigates fiscal pressures, federal and state mandates, and public engagement on local policy questions. Selecting a candidate with deep operational experience could prioritize continuity and delivery, while an external manager may bring new strategic directions and intergovernmental relationships.

The council’s public interviews will be a focal point for civic oversight and transparency. Following those sessions, council deliberations will determine who fills the role vacated by Medary. Given the scope of responsibilities attached to the position, the incoming city manager will be instrumental in guiding Eugene through budget decisions, staffing choices, and implementation of council policy in the years ahead. Residents and stakeholders looking to follow the process should note the Jan. 13 interview date and monitor council proceedings for the next steps in the selection.