Eugene city council faces criticism over Cahoots mobile crisis service funding cuts

Concerns over the future of the Cahoots program dominated the Eugene City Council meeting on April 14, 2025, as community members voiced their fears about the impact of its potential closure on public safety and mental health services. Patrick Triggott, a resident and advocate for Cahoots, urged the council to treat the situation as a public safety emergency, emphasizing the program's critical role in the community and its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional emergency services. "Cahoots is extremely cost-efficient while providing services that are complementary to EPD and Eugene Springfield Fire," he stated, calling for immediate action to restore the program's 24/7 operations.

The urgency of the matter was echoed by other speakers, including Danny Patch, who criticized the council for perceived dishonesty in funding discussions and suggested reallocating funds from parks and recreation to support Cahoots. Cameron Stringfield, a local activist, lamented the loss of vital community services and highlighted the struggles of working-class residents in Eugene, calling for transparency regarding the city's relationship with ICE and its treatment of immigrants.

Council members acknowledged the importance of Cahoots, with Councilor Zelenka noting that the program has saved lives and is a vital service for the city. However, he clarified that the decision to end the contract with Cahoots was not made by the city but rather by White Bird, the organization that operated it. He emphasized the need for collaboration to stabilize the program and restore its funding.

The council's discussions underscored a broader concern about the city's budget constraints and the potential cuts to essential services if funding issues are not resolved. Councilor Yeh expressed her commitment to understanding the situation better and ensuring that the community remains informed about developments regarding Cahoots.

As the meeting concluded, the future of the Cahoots program remained uncertain, with community members and councilors alike recognizing its significance in addressing mental health crises and enhancing public safety in Eugene. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining whether this vital service can be restored and adequately funded.