Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Springfield City Council has okayed the installation of more sewers for homes along Lake Springfield.

Federal American Rescue Plan money totaling $710,000 will be used to connect homes along Lake Springfield, with the Sangamon County Water Reclamation District.

But, that’s not the issue Alderman Shawn Gregory has with the work, which was approved unanimously.

“I’m really, really disappointed in our contractors, who have contracts, and the workforce that’s on them,” said Gregory.  “Often, as I arrive and I see different projects going on throughout the city, we don’t see a lot of diversity on those projects.  And that’s very concerning.”

Gregory says at least ten percent of workers on a project need to be minorities — something the City Council backed, saying others would get mad if numbers were higher like in other cities.  He says he’d like to see more of a “good-faith effort” to make that work.

Alderman Jeff Cox says given the scope of work, it may be more difficult to get contractors with any minority employees.  Nevertheless, he says the work needs to be done.

“All we’re doing here is keeping the nasty stuff from seeping into our lake,” said Cox.  “I think everybody’s cool with that part of it.”

That’s because many of the homes in that area now use septic systems.  It’s believed most of the work has been completed.