Investigation Finds Lane County Commissioner Violated Policy

An investigation into Lane County Commissioner David Loveall has concluded that he violated county policy by retaliating against employees who reported his inappropriate comments and behavior. The probe, conducted by Mountain Lakes Employment Investigations, revealed that Loveall likened a community partner to a “stripper” during a conversation in May 2025, prompting complaints from two unnamed employees and County Administrator Steve Mokrohisky. The investigation, which included interviews with 15 county employees and a review of extensive documentation, found that Loveall's actions constituted “adverse action” against those who raised concerns.

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The investigation highlighted several instances of Loveall's alleged misconduct, including the use of potentially discriminatory language and religious remarks in the workplace. One employee reported that Loveall frequently employed “Christian religious language,” which made them uncomfortable. Following the complaints, Loveall reportedly instructed Mokrohisky to dismiss the employees' concerns, stating, “Tell the employees to eff off, commissioners can do what they want.” He also threatened Mokrohisky, asserting that he would take steps to “get rid of these people” if the situation was not resolved.

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Mokrohisky characterized Loveall's behavior as part of a broader pattern of “defiant” and “demeaning” conduct that began when Loveall took office in 2023. Loveall, however, has disputed the findings of the investigation, labeling it “one-sided” and politically motivated. He claimed that the report misrepresented private conversations and alleged that it was an attempt to influence the upcoming May primary election, in which he is seeking reelection. Loveall stated, “The report has failed to allege a single actual example of retaliation that resulted in real damages to anyone’s employment.”

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This investigation follows a $250,000 settlement reached in October 2024 with former City Attorney Erin Pettigrew, who accused Loveall of making hostile and gender-biased remarks, including calling her a “spinster.” Loveall has characterized the current investigation as a “partisan attack” and expressed intentions to pursue legal avenues against the county for what he perceives as mishandling of the matter.

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The Lane County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to discuss the findings of the investigation in a closed-door executive session. The outcome of this meeting may determine the next steps regarding Loveall's conduct and any potential disciplinary actions.

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• “I think of a stripper on a stripper’s pole, her hands moving like this.” — David Loveall

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• “There’s nothing they can do to stop commissioners from saying and doing whatever they want.” — David Loveall

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• “there must also be a baseline standard of professionalism and respect,” — Steve Mokrohisky

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• “I am exploring every avenue to pursue against the county for their mishandling of this matter and look forward to a quick resolution of these baseless accusations brought by activist staff members who are attempting to insert themselves into the political process,” — David Loveall

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This investigation underscores the complexities of workplace conduct and the implications of public officials' behavior on their professional environments.

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