Springfield City Council Roundup from May 5, 2025

The Springfield City Council met on Monday, May 5, 2025, for a Work Session and Regular Meeting. Highlights from the evening included adjustments to utility fees, celebration of public service through May proclamations, and key actions advancing housing and infrastructure priorities.

Celebrating Community Service: Four May Proclamations
Mayor Sean VanGordon issued four proclamations recognizing the vital contributions of individuals and professions that serve our city:

• Building Safety Month – Honoring the professionals who ensure safe, sustainable, and resilient structures in our community.
• National Public Works Week – Celebrating the essential contributions of public works teams who maintain critical infrastructure and services.
• National Law Enforcement Week – Paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of Springfield Police personnel.
• May is Bike Month – Promoting biking as a healthy, sustainable way to explore and engage with our community.

Council Adopts Wastewater and Stormwater Rate Adjustments for FY 2025-26
Following a public hearing, Council approved updated local and regional user fees for wastewater and stormwater services, effective July 1, 2025.

These annual rate adjustments will ensure continued investment in Springfield’s critical infrastructure systems.

• Local wastewater fees will increase by 5.0%
• Stormwater fees will increase by 3.0%
• MWMC regional wastewater fees will increase by 5.0%

For the average Springfield residential customer, this represents an estimated increase of $3.52 per month.

These adjustments support regulatory compliance, system maintenance, and the implementation of long-range capital plans, ensuring sustainable, high-quality services for Springfield residents.

Joint Elected Officials Advance Development Code Update
During a joint public hearing with the Lane County Board of Commissioners, Council advanced an amendment to the Springfield Development Code that expands allowable uses within the Campus Industrial District. 

The proposed changes, developed in collaboration with local property owners, include permitting medical offices, clinics, and customer-serving services within designated business parks.

Springfield City Council held a second reading of the ordinance. Lane County Commissioners completed a third reading and tentatively adopted Ordinance No. 25-03, with final deliberation and adoption scheduled for June 24, 2025.

Advancing Housing and Community Goals
Council unanimously adopted the 2025 Eugene-Springfield Consolidated Plan, a federally required strategy that guides the use of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds over the next five years.

The plan focuses on expanding access to housing, promoting economic opportunity, and enhancing supportive services.

Additional Council Actions

• Approved a second reading and adoption of the Kiev Street name change to Kyiv Street, aligning with Ukrainian spelling and community sentiment.
• Approved the FY 2025-26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan, allocating funds as follows:
  • 15% of funds to the Lane County Human Services Division for local social services.
  • 20% for grant administration and planning.
  • Up to $400,000 for the City’s Home Repair Program.
  • Authorized the City Manager to execute all documents related to the HUD agreement.
  • Approved a $500,000 contract with DevNW to support affordable housing development in Springfield.

Stay Engaged
Springfield City Council meets the first four Mondays of each month. Meetings are open to the public and livestreamed on the City’s Youtube Channel.

“Business from the Audience” is welcomed during meetings on the first and third Mondays. Learn more: springfield-or.gov/city/city-council-meetings

About the City of Springfield
The City of Springfield is dedicated to providing high-quality services for its community members, fostering a safe and vibrant city, and preserving its rich heritage. Through innovative initiatives and strong partnerships, Springfield strives to enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.