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🌱 Patch AM: What new Springfield city contracts are transparency advocates trying to uncover?

Spotted on the Springfield calendar: Thursday Night Trivia at Anvil & Forge!

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Good morning Springfield! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • What new Springfield city contracts are transparency advocates trying to uncover?
  • How stretched are Springfield’s micropantries—and what donations help most?
  • Could your next broken taillight earn you free repairs instead?

Also on today's calendar: The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Springfield, IL and 7 more events.

Find out what's happening in Springfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: What did one tuna say to the other after getting caught stealing files from work? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Springfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Thursday: Cloudy and cold, with a high of 32 and low of 27 degrees.
  • Friday: Mostly cloudy and cold, temps: high: 31, low: 11. ⛄️ Brr!
  • Saturday: Cloudy and bitterly cold, with a high of 15 and low of -6 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. FOIA request sent to City of Springfield regarding new or amended contracts on December 9, 2025 (sangamonsun.com) — A media outlet has filed a FOIA request with the City of Springfield seeking details on all new or amended city contracts from early 2025, including public works, technology, and consulting deals. The requester, tied to a transparency-focused nonprofit, promises ongoing updates so residents can better track how Springfield spends public money.
   

2. Springfield-area micropantries have some big thinking behind them (sj-r.com) — Springfield’s network of about three dozen micropantries is seeing record demand, with volunteers racing to restock sites at schools, churches, and neighborhoods across the city. Local groups like the Junior League of Springfield and AAUW are organizing drives, and residents are urged to donate sturdy, meal-ready foods and toiletries to keep these anonymous, 24/7 pantries filled through the winter.
   

3. Springfield Police Department shares updates on repair voucher program (newschannel20.com) — Springfield drivers stopped for minor equipment violations may receive a voucher worth up to $250 for free repairs at four participating local shops, instead of a ticket. Funded by a state grant and run through the Lights On! program, the Springfield Police Department’s initiative aims to boost roadway safety and improve police-community relations while helping residents save money.
   

4. Deborah Frances Melton No. 2025PR89 (breezecourier.com) — A probate notice has been issued for the estate of Deborah Frances Melton, with claims due by June 11, 2026, or later if individually notified. The independent executor lives in Mechanicsburg, while the estate’s attorney is based on South Sixth Street in Springfield, giving local creditors a clear point of contact and deadline.
   

5. Illinois fire officials highlight fire safety during holiday season with demonstration (wcia.com) — Springfield residents are being urged to take extra care with candles, Christmas trees, and holiday lights after state fire officials staged a dramatic live burn demonstration in town. Leaders highlighted how quickly a decorated living room can ignite and shared simple steps—like watering real trees daily and keeping flames away from decorations—to prevent deadly fires this season.
   

📸 Around Springfield

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Voices: Firefighters Sound Alarm on Recruitment Crisis — Lawmakers Hold the Key —Steve Corsaro Read on Patch
  • Update: Pet Reunited
    Betty, a dog who went missing in Springfield, IL, has been safely reunited with their family after 12 hours, 58 minutes. Message from Owner: "Call… (Nextdoor Grandview Ave/Wolfe St)
  • Update: Pet Reunited
    Aj , a dog who went missing in Springfield, IL, has been safely reunited with their family after 12 hours, 54 minutes. Message from Owner: "He is… (Nextdoor Grandview Ave/Wolfe St)
  • Tractor Supply Company posted a job opening for Team Member in Springfield. Apply here.
  • Meijer, Inc. posted a job opening for Night Food Clerk in Springfield. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Springfield here.

Ok Springfield! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I could get canned for this!
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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