Springfield Moves Forward Without State Approval | Springfield News

Sangamon County is racing ahead with a bold plan to expand the BOS Center without waiting for state approval, proposing a three percent hotel tax to fund a $60 million upgrade—aimed at beating rising construction costs and keeping Springfield’s downtown economy alive. Dubbed “Operation Save Downtown Springfield,” the move seeks to attract bigger conventions and reverse lost business, even as state lawmakers stall on a larger $200 million project that includes a new hotel. Local leaders say the tax, while controversial among hoteliers, is economically justified—and they’re ready to lower it if needed. With a vote scheduled for September 1st, this local initiative could soon reshape Springfield’s future, turning a temporary fix into a long-term economic boost. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/695fb646baf9f393