Fire Levy Renewal
October 9, 2025 — Noon to 1:00 p.m. (doors open at 11:30).
Roaring Rapids Pizza, 4006 Franklin Boulevard in Glenwood
This specially scheduled program is being held outside our typical meeting dates
The Fire Service Levy imposed by the City of Springfield is up for renewal and will be voted on at the November 4 election. Eugene Springfield Fire Chief Mike Caven will review the history of the Eugene Springfield Fire Department, including its origin, and discuss considerations for the future governance of the organization. He will cover the suite of services provided by the department, as well as the challenges that exist due to service demand, emerging threats from wildfires, and public funding. Additionally, discuss the upcoming levy renewal on the November 4th election ballot to fund the 5th fire company in Springfield.
Chief Caven has led Eugene Springfield Fire since 2022 and has been a member of the department since 2007. With 23 years of experience in the fire service, Chief Caven has advanced through the ranks, starting his career with the City of Cottage Grove in 2002. The Chief spent two terms on the board of directors at South Lane County Fire & Rescue and nearly a decade leading the Lane Professional Firefighters Association. Chief Caven was born in Eugene and grew up in Central Oregon, so outdoor activities are what make him smile the most, just ahead of a good firehouse prank. Fun fact: Before moving to Eugene after accepting his current role, Chief Caven owned and operated a craft chocolate factory, where he crafted chocolate using beans from all over the world.