Juliana Wallace, Gov. Tina Kotek’s behavioral health director, has announced her resignation, becoming the sixth staff member to leave the administration in the past five months. Wallace, who oversaw the governor’s behavioral health initiatives, cited her true passion for supporting people in need as the reason for her departure. She will be returning to Central City Concern as Senior Clinical Director of Behavioral Health.
The resignation comes amid concerns raised by other aides regarding the involvement of Kotek’s spouse, Aimee Kotek Wilson, in the governor’s office. Emails revealed that Kotek had asked Wallace to contact a behavioral health organization on behalf of a friend of Kotek Wilson, a move deemed inappropriate by some within the administration. The governor has not provided additional details on the matter but has affirmed her decision to prioritize workplace safety.
Despite these concerns, the Oregon Government Ethics Commission has determined that there is no violation of ethics laws as long as Kotek Wilson remains in an unpaid role in her wife’s office. This decision could allow her to continue her involvement in the administration.
In the wake of Wallace’s resignation, the governor’s office has appointed five new staff members, including advisors for various sectors such as natural resources and education. Wallace expressed her gratitude towards Kotek Wilson for her passion for those struggling with behavioral health issues in her resignation letter.
The governor’s office declined to provide further comments on the resignation, citing it as a personnel matter. Wallace’s last day is set for September 13th.
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