The Springfield City Council approved the annexation of two pieces of property last Tuesday.

Councilman Max Neidlinger said it was an oversight that the first piece of land, on 728 Highway 119 South, was not annexed earlier with surrounding property.

Council member Troy Allen stepped out of the room during the vote because the land is owned by his parents.

The council also approved the annexation of 1474 Highway 21 South.

Neither annexation drew public comments at their respective public hearings.

Council member Charles Hinley excused himself from the vote because the property is owned by his grandson-in-law.

Council members also approved the notice of election and qualifications for candidates. The mayor and city council must be at least 21 years of age, a resident of Springfield for 12 months proceeding the election and a qualified voter in the city of Springfield.

Candidate qualifying will begin on Aug. 31 at 8:30 a.m. and end Sept. 4 at 4:30 p.m.

The qualifying fees for mayor are $35 and are $25 for council member seats. The three council terms that will expire are those of Hinely, Jeff Ambrose and Kenny Usher.

Candidates must file financial and campaign disclosure reports, and anyone interested in running can get those forms from city hall.

The council also approved a concept report to be submitted to the Department of Transportation for the streetscape project on Laurel Street.

Mayor Barton Alderman thanked everyone for participating in National Night Out.