City of Springfield news release:

The City of Springfield will implement the new metal-detector security system upgrade, authorized by City Council earlier this year, beginning Dec. 1, 2008.

The system will be tested on several occasions before Dec. 1. The metal detector will be in operation for the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting at 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20; at the Busch Building after 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 21; and at the City Council meeting at 7 p.m., Monday, Nov. 24.

At both locations, prohibited items include: Explosives or explosive devices; any firearms; knives or bladed instruments with blades longer than two inches; scissors; pointed objects (except writing instruments); Mace/pepper spray; tasers; and any other devices or items designed to, or capable of, injuring or incapacitating a person.

Small, pocket-style knives with blades or tools no more than two inches long will be permitted.

Anyone found to be carrying these items will be asked to return them to their vehicles and then return to the Busch Building or Historic City Hall. The City will not store any of these prohibited items while visitors are in the building.

A visual inspection will be made of bags, purses, briefcases, etc., for the same prohibited items.

The metal detectors will be placed at the main public entrance on the east side of the Busch Building and on the third floor of Historic City Hall.

After passing through security in the Busch Building, visitors will be asked to sign in for passes if they intend to use the elevator or stairwell to go above the first floor. Visitors to first-floor offices will not be required to sign in consistent with the current policy.

The City Council authorized this security upgrade to provide a more secure environment for employees, visitors and volunteers using City offices.