Statement of E-Verify Lawsuit

The City of Springfield has agreed to a preliminary injunction in a joint lawsuit filed by four plaintiffs, May 9, 2012 in U.S. District Court for the Western Division. The suit challenges the City's proposed enforcement of the E-Verify ordinance passed by voters on Feb. 7, 2012.

The preliminary injunction will effectively put a stay on any enforcement, which was slated to begin June 4. The injunction stays in place until a court decision.

Bob Stephens Named New Springfield Mayor

Bob Stephens was sworn in May 8 as Springfield's Mayor, following the resignation of former Mayor Jim O'Neal. Stephens was elected as an at-large City Council member in April 2009 and selected by his fellow council members as Mayor Pro Tem in 2011. He currently serves as a Member of the Council Plans and Policies Committee and the Community Involvement Committee.

• See several video interviews with Mayor Bob Stephens
• Image of Bob Stephens Swearing in

Council Passes Smoking Ban Amendments

City Council agreed to exemptions to the City's year-old smoke-free ordinance. Exempted are: bingo halls, cigar bars, tobacco shops, private clubs, E-cigarettes and smoking as part of theatrical productions.

Council did not approve a proposal to exempt bars that get less than 10 percent of their income from food. Each of the exemptions to the smoking ban required a unanimous vote.

Organizations should read Council Bill 2012-127 thoroughly to determine their eligibility for exemption, and contact the City Attorney at 417-864-1558 with any questions.