On Monday night, Springfield leaders solidified the message they want to send to state lawmakers, but they decided that one issue needed more discussion before going to Jefferson City.
Council passed an ordinance detailing the city’s stance on a range of issues, with economic development and fighting poverty at the top of the list. Other key issues the city is weighing in on are maintenance of local government control; protection of the environment; and efficient traffic enforcement.
Of the two amendments proposed to the ordinance, one passed.
All eight council members in attendance – Mayor Jim O’Neal was absent – approved an addition expressing the city's interest in involvement in a national discussion on the creation of high-speed rail lines. The federal government has earmarked $8 billion to promote high-speed rail services, awarding Missouri $31 million to strengthen existing passenger rail service between St. Louis and Kansas City.
“Part of the attention for this is simply to raise our hand, for anybody out there that’s planning a high-speed rail and the installation of passenger rail, and say Springfield is interested,” Councilman Dan Chiles said.
A second amendment, which didn’t pass, recommended the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System offer a defined contribution option for all retirees. The idea failed because council agreed it needed further discussion.
"We’re asking to declare this a legislative priority before we kick off the discussion and have the community dialogue that this particular council values,” said Councilman Robert Stephens.
Read more about Springfield City Council in SBJ's Feb. 15 issue.
