GOOD NEWS
I have driven an electric vehicle (EV) for about two years, and I don’t think I would want to go back to driving an internal combustion car. That said, I know that we have a long way to go before most people can make the switch. One of the hurdles is ensuring that people have ample opportunities to charge. Of course, this is not a new problem in transportation, though it is new to most people reading this.
When automobiles were first invented, gasoline was often difficult to find, as stations were not widespread. Not every community had a gas station. Also, they did not have the benefit of smartphones to help them find a gas station. At least with EV charging, I can do a quick search and find a place to plug in.
This is why I am excited about expanded electric vehicle charging being installed by CWLP (“City and state to build more Springfield EV chargers,” Oct. 16). There are several levels of charging, which impact the speed at which one can fully charge their car. The chargers that CWLP are installing are what some consider to be “destination chargers.” They are places to plug in while spending a few hours shopping, dining and visiting. Providing that type of charger downtown and in major shopping destinations will improve the experience for EV owners. While shopping and touring, their cars can be charging.
One concern I hear a lot is how the grid will hold up. The types of chargers that CWLP is installing draw no more power than a household clothes dryer. When clothes dryers and air conditioning and other modern conveniences became mainstream, electric utilities adapted. CWLP is no different.
While EVs may not work for everyone, I absolutely love mine and am glad to have the option. Don’t believe everything you hear about EVs, because a lot of it is incorrect.
Steven Simpson-Black
Springfield
THE COMMON GOOD
While Springfield only has about 200 electric vehicles (based on registration info), the state adds about 3,500 EVs each month. Not only do we want to support neighbors’ decisions to buy EVs, but we want to welcome tourists driving EVs. It’s merely accepting that electric vehicles are here and not going away.
In a civilized society, we don’t only consider ourselves. I don’t have children in school, but my tax dollars go to educating my neighbors’ kids.
Tiffany Lapp
Springfield
NICE SAVE
Fantastic news about the recent renovation of the Condell House (“The 1842 Condell House,” Oct. 16). The last time I glanced left while driving Fourth Street and saw this, I wished I had the money to rehab it and live there. It looked so bad I didn’t even think it was possible (to save it).
John Levalley
Springfield
CORREX
Critter Sitter was voted best pet sitting service for this year’s Best of Springfield, not a business with a similar name. There is no brick-and-mortar location, as this is a mobile pet sitting service, but owner Jacquie Floyd can be reached at 217-836-5695.
This article appears in November 6-12, 2025.
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