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Alderman returns to mayor's post
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Barton Alderman, right, takes the oath of office as mayor of Springfield from municipal court judge Ed Reddick. Alderman was the only candidate in the election to fill the unexpired term of Jeff Northway, who resigned in July. - photo by Photo by Pat Donahue

Barton Alderman was sworn in Tuesday night as the mayor of Springfield, returning to a post he held for five years.

Alderman was the only candidate to sign up for a special election called to fill the seat, left vacant when Jeff Northway resigned in July.

Alderman first was appointed to city council in February 2001, taking over for Derrell Banks. In July 2004, he was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Mayor Neel Ackerman. Alderman was unopposed for re-election to a full term in 2005 and did not seek re-election in 2009.

The mayor’s position became open when Northway, elected in 2009 to succeed Alderman, resigned last month. Northway’s resignation followed a lengthy legal battle, beginning with council members asking for his resignation in November 2010. A superior court judge upheld their request in July 2011, but the state’s highest court overturned that decision in June.

Effingham High School Band to Perform at NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade
St. Patty's Day
Effingham County High School band members are preparing to represent their school and community on a national stage in New York City next March. (Courtesy of Effingham County High School)
The Effingham County High School marching band has been invited to perform in New York City’s historic 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This prestigious opportunity marks the band’s largest performance to date, showcasing their talents on a national stage.
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