A Practical Leader for the City We Love
Local business owner and longtime Eugene resident brings real-world and civic experience to Ward 3 of the Eugene City Council.
Proven Local Leadership
Experience Eugene Can Rely On
John Barofsky brings decades of real-world experience to public service — as a longtime Eugene resident, civic leader, and partner of Beppe and Gianni’s. His prior civic work has focused on responsible decision-making, long-term planning, and making sure public resources are managed carefully and transparently.
Civic Leadership
Decades of service on city boards and commissions, helping guide planning, budgeting, and oversight decisions for Eugene.
Business Owner
More than 28 years owning and operating a local, small business — bringing real-world perspective to city policy and decision-making.
Budget & Oversight
Hands-on experience with city budgets and public oversight, focused on transparency and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
Community Roots
A Eugene resident for over four decades with long-standing ties to neighborhoods, local institutions, and the university community.
Why I'm Running
Eugene is facing real challenges — rising costs, growing demands on city services, a shortage of housing supply, and a homelessness crisis that reflects deep gaps in how our systems are working. These issues didn’t emerge overnight, and they won’t be solved with simple answers.
Through years of civic involvement, I’ve seen both the dedication of people working within the system and the limitations of how decisions are made. I’m running for City Council because Eugene needs leadership that understands those constraints, asks hard questions, and focuses on practical solutions that move us forward.
Good intentions matter, but outcomes depend on how decisions are made.
Years of civic involvement has given John firsthand insight into how Eugene’s systems operate — where they work well and where they fall short. That experience shapes a leadership approach focused on accountability, coordination, and decisions that lead to measurable results.
My Priorities
Housing Stability and Affordability
Eugene needs more housing options across income levels. I support practical approaches that increase housing supply while protecting neighborhoods and encouraging long-term affordability.
Responsible use of public dollars
With years of experience in city budgeting, I believe transparency and fiscal responsibility are essential. Residents deserve confidence that city resources are being managed carefully and planned for the long term.
Infrastructure, Utilities & Long-Term Planning
Reliable infrastructure and utilities are foundational to a healthy city. My work with EWEB and city boards has focused on long-range planning that balances growth, affordability, and system reliability.
Experience That Matters
Along with owning a small business since 1998, my experience comes from years of working alongside city staff, community members, and fellow volunteers . Through the years, I've gained insight into what works, what doesn’t, and how well-intended policies can fall short without careful oversight and follow-through.
Selected Experience
- President, Eugene Water & Electric Board
- Eugene Planning Commission (8 years)
- Eugene Budget Committee (7 years)
- Street Repair Review Board (Member and Chair)
- Community Safety Payroll Tax Oversight Committee (Past Chair)
- Affordable Housing Trust Fund Advisory Committee
- Longtime Owner and current Partner, Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria (since 1998)
Stay Updated & Get Involved
Real progress happens when neighbors show up for each other. There are lots of ways to help — big and small — and if you’re ready to help build a stronger Eugene, let us know how you’d like to pitch in.