Real Solutions on Homelessness and Mental Health
The task of local government is to address our communities’ urgent needs, doing so in a responsible way that does not burden taxpayers. I have never believed that government is the only solution, but it must be part of the solution. That philosophy is strongly reflected in our County Commission’s recent success on homelessness and mental health.
Here are a few recent community initiatives and how they fit together:
Clackamas Village
In 2016, I spearheaded an unprecedented $300k investment in the Veterans Village project, which opened its doors in 2018. The success of that initiative led to a sister initiative, Clackamas Village, a transitional shelter community with 24 spaces for adults that opened its doors in May 2025.
Lake Road Health Center
Just last month, we celebrated the opening of Lake Road Health Center. This new facility provides outpatient counseling and treatment for mental health and substance use—meeting people where they are and when they need it most.
Clackamas County Recovery Campus
Earlier this year, we reached a deal with Governor Kotek to bring $10 million in state resources to help move the Clackamas County Recovery Campus forward.
This funding, announced by the Governor as part of the state’s ongoing homelessness and behavioral health response, ensures that the Recovery Campus can fully deliver on its vision, including treatment, stabilization, and transitional housing under one coordinated system of care. It’s a critical investment that will help keep this project on track for its planned opening.
How it all fits together
The development of these critical services is part of the equation for safety and livability of our communities as well as compassion for our neighbors who are struggling. It is exactly what this campaign is about: holding the line on local budgets while expanding services to meet urgent needs. When we set our differences aside, we can focus on moving forward together toward prosperity.










