Springfield, IL (Capitol City Now) Several issues were on the agenda for Tuesday night’s Springfield City Council meeting.

Homeless continues to be a topic of discussion, especially with the recent snow and cold temperatures. Ward 8 Alderwoman Erin Conley told the Council that another homeless person died in a vacant home in her ward over the weekend. She urged the City to double down on its efforts to find safer shelter for the City’s homeless.  Ward 4 Alderman Larry Rockford added that vacant structures in Springfield sit dormant for far too long. Mayor Buscher did note that Heartland Housed director Josh Sabo continues to work diligently on the issue.

Garbage pickup was another discussion item with Alderman Rockford noting that he’s gotten lots of calls from his constituents who have not been getting their garbage picked up. Public Works Director Dave Fuchs urged Alderman to have residents contact his office who has been working closely with Republic Services to get garbage pickup caught up. One of the complaints from Alderman Rockford is customers are unable to get a response when calling Republic’s toll-free number. Alderman Ralph Hanauer said when it’s time for contract renewal, whichever company is chosen will need a local number and an actual person for residents to speak with to get his vote.

In other City business, an ordinance approving a three-year contract between the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau and Sinclair Television was passed unanimously by the Council. The measure was for an advertising campaign for the SCVB. Director Scott Dahl said Sinclair was the most affordable option and his agency has seen great success in tourism numbers by partnering with Sinclair.