Voters are set to make history in Spfld

The city is returning to ward representation and two candidates are squaring off for the Mayor's seat.

Because of these historical implications, the Feds will be monitoring polls in Springfield to help ensure the rights of minority voters.

The announcement from the Justice Department that officials will be in the city comes as activists have complained about a lack of minority representation in their city councils.

Springfield is holding its first municipal election under a new "ward" system that's expected to benefit minority candidates following a lawsuit.

Springfield is under a federal court order to provide Spanish-language assistance to voters.

Also, City Councilor Bud Williams is hoping to unseat first term Mayor Domenic Sarno for the top seat in the city.

Citizens in the City of Homes will vote on a binding ballot question which would bump up the Mayor's term from two to four years.

Six members will also be elected to the Springfield School Committee. These elections could produce a number of "firsts" as shifting demographics have given Black and Latino candidates a chance to win local seats.