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City tackles historic building issues
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Springfield Building and Zoning Inspector Wendell Arnsdorff addressed concerns with the city council about issuing building permits in the historic areas of Springfield.

Arnsdorff told councilmembers he asked earlier about building in the historic district and sought guidelines.

“Do we need to start bringing these building plans before a committee, or do we carry on just like we have in the past? I know things are changing,” he said.

Mayor Barton Alderman said currently permits should be handled like they have been in the past.

“We appointed a historic preservation commission that’s eventually going to make recommendations and come up with a historic preservation ordinance and to handle all this,” he said.

Alderman said he spoke with Ramona Bartos, the attorney the city has hired to help with the historic commission.

She’s going to come to meet with the commission. Alderman said the councilman working closely with the historic commission was Ron Boatright.

“I’m going to ask one of our other councilmen to take the lead since Mr. Boatright is no longer with us,” Alderman said. “We’re going to take some action on this to help you out.”

Arnsdorff asked if until that time he was to continue to issue permits as usual.

“So long as they meet all the requirements,” Alderman said.

Councilman Charles Hinely asked if all the residents appointed to the commission accepted the placement.

Alderman told him they had.

Councilman Kenny Usher said it will take a while.

“My understanding is they are going to be trained then they are going to do the survey,” Usher said.

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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