Some prominent Springfield residents want to support nonpartisan officeholders on the Springfield Board of Education and the Springfield City Council, and they’re organizing.
United Springfield announced its formation Oct. 30. The group states it is “designed to support individuals running for nonpartisan office who will unite our Springfield children, citizens, and community.”
Former Springfield Chamber of Commerce President Jim Anderson and Greene County Republican Party leader Terri McQueary are the co-chairs of United Springfield.
“United Springfield is an innovative local solution to a community problem. There has never been an independent entity solely focused on nonpartisan elections,” Anderson said in a press release. “We know economic and workforce development are directly impacted by strong and nonpartisan local leadership. Now is the right time to unite as a community and ensure a united Springfield for the next generation of Springfieldians.”
In addition to her activism with the GOP, McQueary is a small business owner and philanthropist.
“The beauty of United Springfield is that it’s nonpartisan. As partisan politics get more divisive, nonpartisan officeholders must focus on uniting our community,”McQueary said. “United Springfield is truly a place for Republicans, Democrats, and Independents to come together, put aside political disagreements, and focus on making our community better for everyone.”
Debbie Shantz Hart, an attorney and property developer, will serve as the group’s treasurer. Shantz Hart was the vice president and general counsel for John Q. Hammons Hotels for 13 years.
United Springfield filed its documents of organization with the Missouri Ethics Commission on Oct. 27. It is organized as a political action committee.
According to its organization statement, “United Springfield will work to protect civil discourse, community partnerships, and the welcoming culture of innovation.”
According to the press release issued Oct. 30, United Springfield steering committee members include Raylene Appleby, Orin Cummings, Jeff Johnson, Julie Leeth, Alina Lehnert, Tom Prater, and Gail Smart.
Editor's note: Jim Anderson serves as one of five members of the Hauxeda Board of Directors. His involvement with the board has no bearing on editorial decisions related to coverage of United Springfield.
