Springfield City Council dives into the city’s energy future with updates on solar ordinances and carbon capture projects. – CWLP outlines a 25-megawatt solar ordinance and carbon capture pilot project. – Discover the transformative potential of AMI meters for real-time data and improved billing accuracy. – Council members probe into meter lifecycle, ward priorities and […]
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Posted inArts & Culture
A modest proposal
In 1729, Jonathan Swift wrote the satiric essay A Modest Proposal, published in pamphlet form to influence compassion for the starving Irish. The satire ridiculed the British politicians, elites and landowners who did not see the poor Irish as a problem of human misery and suffering but rather as an inconvenience. The ridiculous proposal that […]
Posted inOpinion
Letters to the editor 03-20-25
WASTED MONEY In the article, it says the city of Springfield received a matching grant of $25,000 to pay for planting 130 new trees (“Springfield Urban Forestry Commission member resign,” Feb. 27). So I think we can understand why they aren’t getting more money from taxpayers that are already strapped. That is about $190 a […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Springfield schools face budget cuts and SCOPE challenges
The Springfield District 186 Board of Education meeting was packed with critical discussions: – The agenda was amended to focus on the SCOPE program. – Superintendent Gill celebrated achievements like the Scholastic Bowl’s state success and the Owen Marsh Elementary groundbreaking. – A three-year deficit reduction plan was unveiled, aiming to save costs without impacting […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Mayor’s civility pledge at Council meeting doesn’t quell anger about fallout from retired police officer’s DUI accident
Mayor Misty Buscher introduces a civility pledge and honors retiring Memorial CEO Ed Curtis with a proclamation for his retirement. Several variance requests were approved for a new restaurant. Route History Inc. requested a zoning change for a museum on Jackson Street. But the focus of the meeting was on police accountability for the car-motorcycle […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
School safety measures and student achievements discussed
The Springfield District 186 Board of Education meeting tackled pressing issues and celebrated achievements: – Superintendent discusses the rise in school violence and outlines safety measures like metal detectors and crisis teams. – Board President calls for stronger leadership at Lanphier, highlighting frustrations with current disciplinary policies. – Celebrations of student achievements, from basketball victories […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Council unanimously approves FY 2026 budget
– The council opened the floor for public comments on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, with community members voicing their concerns and suggestions. – Ward 2 Ald. Shawn Gregory sought clarity on pension funding levels, sparking a detailed financial discussion. – Frustrations arose over delays in Lincoln Library’s bookmobile purchase, with council members seeking answers. […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The not-to-be-missed college visit
These days there are many options for exploring colleges and training institutes – in-person with options such as tours, visit days and information sessions, and through websites, social media, online reviews and even AI summaries. Beginning by exploring a college, or institute, on its website and social media channels can provide information on programs, training […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Student achievements and major construction updates
The board celebrates student successes in poetry and sports, while also discussing significant construction projects at Springfield High and Owen Marsh. Updates include the progress of the new administration wing and plans for a groundbreaking ceremony. The board also addresses the proposal to issue bonds for school improvements. Watch the full Springfield District 186 Board […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Council appoints new alderman, advances low-income housing project
The Springfield City Council meeting was short, but there was significant action: – Jeffrey G. Cox was appointed as the new alderman for Ward 1 after a swift vote. – The council approved $1.5 million in funding for the Nehemiah Expansion project, paving the way for 50 new affordable homes. – Rev. Silas Johnson and […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Building trades unions push for project labor agreement at packed council meeting
The Springfield City Council meeting was packed with building trades union members trying to insure that the next phase of the Nehemiah Homes Redevelopment Project is built using a project labor agreement, per a city ordinance that was put in place after Mayor Misty Buscher took office. The city is being asked to contribute $1.5 […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Reducing homelessness, improving health: How supportive housing can build a stronger community
For those experiencing homelessness, every day can feel like a struggle for survival. In the face of each day’s uncertainty, one of the few constants is difficulty. Every turn poses complications that create barriers to accessing life’s basic needs and the stability and safety people long for. Local organizations and advocates work to provide some […]
