Springfield voters approved Ballot Measure 20-327 with 14,888 “yes” votes and 7,873 “no” votes as of 5 p.m., November 9. The unofficial numbers show both the voter turnout and level of voter approval were an increase over prior Springfield public safety levy election results.
“The Springfield Police Department remains committed to holding accountable those who endanger our sense of community, while at the same time strengthening relationships with those who we are fortunate to serve,” said Springfield Police Chief Andrew Shearer. “Recognizing that trust is at the core of what we do, every member of SPD will continue to treat everyone with dignity and respect. This department remains rooted in the values of professionalism, integrity, courage, & honor while standing steadfast in our commitment to continuous improvement. We thank the community for this show of support and for their belief in the work that SPD does every day to ensure the safety of the City of Springfield.”
Ballot Measure 20-327 proposed renewal of a five-year levy of $1.40 per $1,000 of assessed value beginning in July 2023 for Springfield’s municipal jail and required medical and mental health services, police, support personnel, and municipal court operations. The proposed levy is a renewal and replaces the current levy, which is set to expire in June 2023.
This measure maintains Springfield’s local public safety system, which includes:
- Springfield’s 98 bed municipal jail providing safe and secure detention of pre-sentenced and sentenced adults in custody of misdemeanor crimes such as property theft.
- Funding for about 40 positions including uniformed officers, community service officers, detention officers, dispatchers, call takers, and record clerks.
- Funding for about 38 percent of Springfield Municipal Court operations, including two court clerks.“Thank you, Springfield voters,” said Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon. “Your consistent support of this public safety levy is a game changer in our ability to grow and thrive as a community.”
Original source can be found here.
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