At the end of 2020 I decided that I wouldn’t seek another term on Springfield City Council. Six years seemed time enough and now it’s time for a fresh face to represent northwest Springfield. I encourage you to research the candidates, determine which one will best represent the residents in Zone 1, and VOTE!
In the past six years, we’ve worked hard. We’ve won some and we’ve lost some. And, there’s still much to do. I’ve been blessed to work side-by-side with the finest people in this city – folks throughout our nine organized neighborhoods and beyond, a City staff that would stay right there with us and find ways to make things happen that sometimes looked near impossible, and the many faith and civic organizations that stepped up, saw the need, heard the call, and continue to deliver. I couldn’t have asked for more. My gratitude is greater than you know.
I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to get more done about nuisance properties and dangerous buildings even though I’ve spent more time working in that area than any other. I’m encouraged that City Council recently approved funds for the addition of three new inspectors to add to the current four. Soon, I hope we will see the addition of three full-time compliance officers to help move from a citizens’ complaint system to the City taking a proactive role. This bill was my last opportunity to help ease the strain on our residents and put Building Development Services in a better position.
Crime continues to plague our neighborhoods in Zone 1, as well as the rest of the city. For many of us, this is not the Springfield we know and love. Stay verbal, report, look out for each other, and don’t settle for less than what we are due – safe, healthy neighborhoods in all areas of Springfield.
For those who have worked so hard to improve Zone 1, I want you to always remember the many accomplishments made over the past six years. Our strength and commitment have made Zone 1 a better place for all of us to live. We have seen The Fairbanks, Prosper Springfield, and The Dream Center rise up to provide support systems and opportunities for those working to come out of poverty.
The Job Center North opened and hundreds of job training and employment opportunities have provided our residents with professions and decent jobs. Zone 1 parks are now second to none and better than most. We’ve had almost $2,000,000 poured into them in the last four years.
We’ve added over 10 miles of new sidewalks and had many failing ones replaced, so walking is safer for our kids and us. We’ve seen the Grand and Mt. Vernon bridges replaced and Talmage Dip reworked (we even got a butterfly habitat!) and made safe.
We cruise Kearney Street again. Jefferson Avenue Footbridge, our Northside icon, is funded and the work to repair and rehab is about to go out for bid. The westside fire station on College Street will be built this year. The list goes on and I can’t tell you how incredibly grateful I am to have had the opportunity to work beside you to bring these improvements to Northwest Springfield.
I am proud to call so many of you friend and even more proud to have represented such determined and hardworking people. That hard work and determined spirit is what has carried us across the finish line many times. Hang onto it, use it often, and wear it with honor.
Saying thank you for giving me the chance to represent Zone 1 doesn’t express what’s in my heart. I love the north side and our city. There are many parts to love but what I love most are the people. I’m not saying goodbye because it’s not the end. I’ll see you around!
#NorthsidePride