Ward system brought back to Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield residents will soon have representation by people from their neighborhoods.

The city of homes will return to ward representation. It's a change that many have been pushing for in the courts in recent years.

"I believe that's a good thing. People in the community can talk to their community leaders and maybe they'll have a more in-depth idea about what's going on in our community as a whole," said Rachel Wills of Springfield.

The city council now consists of 5 at large members, and 8 from the city's wards.