As a longtime supporter of the Springfield Public Library, I believe a strong library is an important part of a strong community. I support Jill Cuadros for Springfield City Council and appreciate her work to keep the library on the council’s agenda.

Springfield faces an ongoing structural deficit, and there is a finite amount of money available for library services and other essential city needs. Cuadros joined the council as it faced those difficult budget decisions. She voted for the budget, understanding that the council must make choices within the resources available.

As a library supporter, I want the strongest services we can sustain. I appreciate that Cuadros has continued asking questions about library funding and seeking information and community input to help the council revisit the issue.

That follow-through matters. Adopting a budget should not mean closing the conversation about the people affected by it.

Any expansion of library services will require sustainable funding and honest discussion about competing community needs. I want councilors who listen, ask difficult questions and keep working after a vote is taken.

Cuadros has shown me that willingness. I support her continued service and encourage Springfield voters to vote for Jill Cuadros for City Council.

John Wayland
Springfield