217-787-2297
Monday Dec 14, 2021
Meetings & Events
Know what's going on:
We have every right to know what is going on in our local government. Here are the schedules and some helpful resources for getting involved. Remember, the Aldermen are elected officials. They are in office because we wanted them to lead. But nowadays abuse of power is all too prevalent and it is our responsibility as good and diligent citizens to remain involved in the legislative decisions of our local government.
Springfield City Council Meeting Info:
The City Council is comprised of the Aldermen, Mayor, City Clerk and City Treasurer. The City Council is tasked with representing the interests of their constituents. In addition to proposing, passing, and ratifying laws and ordinances, city councils manage budgets and investigate city agencies when necessary.
When you want to support, propose or stop legislature in Springfield, your Alderman and the City Council are the first ones you should talk to.
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Address & Contact:
Municipal Center West, Floor 3, In Chambers
300 S. Seventh Street
(217) 789.2216
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How to Address the Council:
Request form:
Technically, according to the City Clerk's office, you do not need a request form to attend the meeting or to address the council. They will have a time to open the floor for comments from present citizens, but the request forms are encouraged. Fill out and turn in a form at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.
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Be prepared:
Know who you are addressing and how to address them.
Prepare what to say:
- Knowing what you're talking about and say it clearly and succinctly.
- Stay on point.
- Practice standing up straight in the mirror for a few minutes to increase confidence.
- Remember that as a responsible citizen, you have a right to be here; you pay them for their job.
The Springfield City Council Legislative Process
Aldermen represent the interests of their constituents within their Ward. The City Council is made up of all 10 Aldermen and Alderwomen, the Mayor, City Clerk and City Treasurer. The Committee of the Whole is comprised of all 10 aldermen and the City Clerk. The two groups meet on alternating week.
Committee Meeting
City Council Meeting
City Council Meeting
It is open for discussion. The City Council discusses the pros, cons and general impacts of agenda item.
Agenda Item is introduced to the Council. They are all introduced in the pre-council meeting where all the first reads are introduced. The City Council votes to have the Agenda Item move to Committee, to Table it, or to let it die.
You can submit votes to your alderman so he knows how you want him to vote on these issues.
Agenda Item can be re-opened at a later date.
Item sent back to Council meeting for final vote.
Council Members debate this issue before it goes back to the City Council for a final vote.
Item becomes ordinance or law.
Item taken off agenda and not passed.
You can also address the City Council here or at any meeting.
Item will not be re-opened. It is Archived. Exceptions may apply.
Agenda Item can be re-opened at a later date.
Your vote lets your Alderman know how you want the agenda item to be handled. This is how the Aldermen represent the interests and desires of their constituents. Vote on agenda items today!