Springfield City Council votes to create Citizens' Advisory Board

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- In the first meeting of the new year on Monday, Springfield City Council decided to approve a resolution that allows the creation of a Citizens' Advisory Board tasked with recommending city projects.

The board will help decide what to do with the 1/2 cent portion of the Spring Forward SGF 3/4 sales tax that was renewed in last November's election, which the city says will bring in about $45 million a year.

One woman who attended Monday's meeting tells OzarksFirst it's important for the people of Springfield to make themselves heard. 

"I think that we, the citizens of Springfield, need to stand up and voice our opinion and tell everybody you have a say because the government works for us, not the other way around. And everybody has forgotten that," says Amanda Williams. 

The Citizens' Advisory Board will consist of 7-11 members who are appointed by the City Council for a three-year term and until their successors are appointed. If someone cannot serve a four-year term on the board, City Council will appoint a successor for the unexpired term.

Cora Scott with the City of Springfield says the board is similar to ones that have been made in the past, but that money is the difference maker. 

"What's different is this amount of money being invested in our infrastructure projects. So, an additional 45 million a year brought in by this three-quarter cent sales tax will allow us to basically make some of those visions come to reality that were part of our comprehensive planning process," says Scott. 

In considering a recommendation for potential projects, the board will consider criteria such as whether the project can be completed without debt obligations, create jobs, increase economic growth, retain and attract new residents and businesses, improve livability and more.

Anyone who wants to apply for the advisory board will need to fill out an application and questionnaire by Jan. 31. Those who submitted an earlier application of interest will get an email that will lead them to the questionnaire.

Appointment recommendations are expected to take place during the City Council meeting on March 10. New members are then expected to be confirmed at the March 24 meeting.

You can apply to the new Citizens' Advisory Board and learn more about it here.