Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) At Tuesday night’s Springfield City Council meeting, several Alderman express frustration over what they believe is neglect of the City’s north and east sides.

Alderman Larry Rockford said that for what the City is paying SSGA to bring economic development to Springfield, the City should see better performance. Alderman Shawn Gregory suggested the SSGA board devote a staff member full time to Springfield only, rather than the entire county.

Alderman Roy Williams said he travels South Grand Avenue and doesn’t see things getting better but worse, in terms of empty buildings and lots.

SSGA CEO and President Ryan McCrady assured council members he pushes developers to those parts of Springfield that seem to be underutilized. When asked about how many minorities work on local economic development projects, McCrady was unsure, but Mayor Buscher mentioned that her office is working on tracking the demographics numbers in hopes of making sure all local workers can be hired to work on projects.

In other city business, alderman had kind words for both outgoing Police Chief Ken Scarlette and outgoing Fire Chief Ed Canny. Scarlette announced his retirement last week and Canny announced his retirement Tuesday.