200+ Residents Back Proposed Behavioral-Health Campus

More than 200 residents and regional stakeholders have urged the Springfield City Council to approve land annexation for PeaceHealth and Lane County’s proposed behavioral health campus in Gateway, with 185 individuals and several groups supporting the project and seven commenters opposing it. Supporters, including health professionals, law enforcement representatives and families affected by mental illness, say the facility could reduce reliance on jails and emergency rooms for people with severe behavioral health needs. Nearby property owners and Common Sense for Springfield oppose the project, citing land-use rules and potential impacts on neighboring businesses. The council’s decision deadline is Nov. 2.