A longtime Commercial Street advocate and former Springfield City Council member has announced plans to run for mayor in the April election. On the first day election packets were available to pick up, Mary Collette was among those ready to file their candidacy for the April ballot.
Collette, who served as councilwoman for eight years in the early 2000s, has remained in public service since then, particularly with her involvement on Commercial Street. Collette serves as president of the Commercial Club and owns Historic Firehouse No. 2.
“I had some goals that I have not met yet,” she said. “As Mayor Mary I might be able to achieve some of my goals more readily.”
She said her primary focus as mayor would be to realize the city’s potential and build on the work others have already done while ensuring everyone feels they have a voice and role in their local government. While she hasn’t served on council in recent years, Collette said she felt it was time to return to elected public service.