Government continues to grow.

As the town grew, government was called upon to provide more services. A library system was established with a Carnegie Library . . . now the present Central Library . . . opened in 1903. It is now part of a city-county system which has three facilities in the community, and others throughout the county.

A parks commission was first appointed in 1913. It now manages many acres of land and provides many recreational opportunities. Various other boards have been appointed to supervise such activities as the Art Museum, Children's Home, Human Rights, Zoning and Planning, Municipal Airport and others.

Purchase of the Springfield Gas and Electric Company in 1945 put the city in the utilities business with total control in 1957 after purchase of the Springfield Water Company. Since that time two large new power plants and a new water reservoir have been added.

A public works department was established to look after a growing sewer system and streets; a health department to prevent unsanitary conditions and disease.