Infrastructure fundingSpringfield, Illinois, faces infrastructure woes
As is the case with other cities, the infrastructure of Illinois’ capital, Springfield, is decaying. Experts told the city council that it would take $86.6 million over the next three years to shore up the city’s streets and sewer system, and $22.5 million a year thereafter to maintain it. The city is now grappling with how to raise the necessary funds.
Earlier this week, Springfield, Illinois Mayor Mike Houston promised to give the city council his recommendations on funding for fixing streets, sidewalks, and sewers. One of the recommendations said that a sales tax increase might be needed.
The State Journal-Register reports that Houston was reminded by several aldermen of his campaign pledge, which he made nearly two years ago, to have an infrastructure plan in place within his first thirty days in office.
“The public, I think, is waiting for you to give your best advice and judgment on what you think was the best way to finance what needs to be done,” Alderman Joe McMenamin told Houston. “The public wishes for there to be no further delays.”
Houston said he is more than happy to assemble a plan, but Alderman Doris Turner was quick to respond.
“That’s what you always say — you’ll be happy to bring a plan,” said Alderman Turner. “When can we anticipate seeing that?”
“It was last week when we made the presentation,” Houston responded. “I think if you would give me just a little bit of time to start putting some numbers together, we’ll be able to bring you something very shortly.”
“Well, we’re … two years and counting,” Turner added. “So whatever more time you need, just let us know.”
Mark Mahoney, the Illinois Public Works director, told the aldermen that in order to improve Springfield’s – Illinois capital — streets, sidewalks, and storm sewers, they would have to come up with $86.6 million over the next three years. Mahoney also suggested spending $22.5 million a year to maintain the infrastructure thereafter.
Houston planned on using video gaming revenue to fund the massive project, but that would only pay for a portion of the city’s infrastructure expenses. Houston wants to take that revenue to a long-term bond issue.
“Ultimately, what we’re going to have to do is look at some type of sales tax increase if we’re going to have to fund something at this magnitude,” Houston told reporters after the meeting.
Houston did not say when he will present his proposal to the city council.
Tuesday’s discussion was prompted by Alderman Cory Jobe who pushed the mayor and city council to create a committee to come up with methods to fund Springfield’ infrastructure, but several aldermen said a committee is not needed, only a plan that can be executed.
