Springfield Area Arts Council

Springfield Approves Budget for Fiscal Year 2026

On February 25, 2025 Director Szabo approached City Council members to ask that the City of Springfield continue funding the Springfield Area Arts Council. Mayor Buscher informed everyone at the meeting that SAAC’s $30,000 of annual funding is incorporated into the FY26 budget, marking a huge achievement for the arts in our community.

The Springfield city council unanimously approved the budget after incorporating several amendments, including the addition of new barricades for the police department.

Alderman Jim Donelan said the barricades were added as an amendment within the last two days. Police Chief Ken Scarlette emphasized the importance of safety in light of recent tragic events in New Orleans.

“As many festivals and activities, we have in our community, we feel it’s important to protect our citizens whether it’s parades or whatever it may be,” Scarlette said. “This is not just to necessarily prevent intentional attacks, it can also be used for Public Works.”

During the public comment session, Bella Szabo of the Springfield Area Arts Council expressed frustration over their funding request. However, Mayor Buscher clarified the situation.

“Ms. Szabo, I just want to tell you, I don’t know, I wasn’t involved in the conversation you were in, but it’s in the budget,” Buscher said.

“It is?” Szabo asked.

“I didn’t take it out, so I’m not sure what happened. I don’t know why you were told that, but it’s in the budget,” Buscher replied.

“Well never mind, thank you,” Szabo said.

The session highlighted concerns about communication between the council and the public. Public speaker Ken Pacha underscored this issue.

“Like she shouldn’t have had to come up here to beg for something that you were already going to give her, right? That kind of communication is paramount, guys,” Pacha said.

Donelan also noted that the quick turnaround on the budget was due to prompt deliveries of requests from departments.

 

Read the original article on Fox Illinois or watch the city council meeting here.



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