VIDEO: Springfield residents have approved a five-year fire and safety services local option levy with 68% of voters in favor. The measure will increase the current levy by 15 cents, raising it to 53 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, starting Nov. 20-26. The additional tax funds will not add services but will provide necessary funding for one of the city’s fire stations, currently operating at 75% funding under the existing levy. Mayor Sean VanGordon expressed gratitude to residents on the city’s Facebook page for their support. The levy is expected to generate $16.6 million over five years. Fire Chief Mike Caven stated that the funds would cover fire, rescue, and EMS services.
