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Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce hosted what they billed as “The State of Greater Springfield” combining Mayor Misty Buscher’s State of the City address and Sangamon County Board Chairman, Andy Van Meter’s State of the County address.
It happened at the Thursday luncheon before a packed banquet room at the downtown Abraham Lincoln Hotel.
The mayor began her speech with a lighthearted slide show about some fun events in Springfield including the September Car Show and her dream of reopening the lakeside Beach House to the public.
She then moved on to the more serious matter of public safety which she says is priority #1 for her administration. To that end she talked about adding 45 new officers since she took office bringing staffing levels to 96% of goal.
She also talked about the ambitious government mandate to replace much of the city’s outdated and dangerous lead drinking water pipes.
She spoke of beautification of the city including its entryways and medians.
She also stressed the vital need for more hotel rooms in the city especially with the new Scheels Sports Complex ready to come online.
Chairman Van Meter spoke a great deal about the progress the county has been making in dealing with issues of homelessness. He said in 2023 the county found permanent shelter for 254 individuals and thirty families compared to only 95 people helped the previous year.
He also talked about the 10th street rail project and plans for the 3rd street corridor.
He also assured the audience that any plans for an expansion of the BOS center across Adams Street would not involve any new taxes for residents.
Hear the State of Greater Springfield event
Mayor Misty Buscher addresses a full house at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel ballroom
Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mike Murphy is joined by Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher, Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter, and President of the Illinois Railroad Association Tim Butler
Packed house in attendance for The State of Greater Springfield annual address