I support Callee Ackland for Springfield City Council Ward 4 because she understands that a healthy community requires compassion, action and investment in people.

Ackland supports life-affirming, lifesaving measures that help people thrive, including behavioral health services, truly affordable housing and public libraries. These resources provide stability, connection and access to help when people need it most.

Mental health support is a serious challenge throughout Oregon, including Springfield. Suicide loss affects families, friends, co-workers and neighbors, making prevention and accessible support essential to our community.

The planned behavioral health center on International Way represents an important opportunity for Springfield, and Ackland is already advocating for it. Moving this project forward requires City Council approval to annex the property from the county. This should be an easy yes vote; yet this is not guaranteed.

Neighboring businesses are opposing the opening of a psychiatric facility next door under the guise of zoning considerations. Councilors must recognize our community’s urgent need for accessible behavioral healthcare and support this center. We cannot afford to overlook opportunities to expand lifesaving services.

Ackland is informed, engaged and committed to Springfield’s people and neighborhoods. I encourage voters to elect Callee Ackland to the Springfield City Council.

Diane Peterson
Springfield