Springfield, OR – The City of Springfield was recently made aware of a scam that targeted a planning and development applicant. The scammer appears to have researched publicly available planning and development application details, then emailed the applicant to request payment to complete their applications.
The scammer then emailed the applicant, using official-sounding details and titles, even claiming to be a member of the City’s Planning Commission. However, the requested payment method was a bank wire transfer, with an attached invoice to the email.
The City of Springfield accepts payments for planning and development applications only in person at City Hall or through the City’s Development Center e-Permitting website, using a secure link sent to the applicant via email.
The City of Springfield will NEVER request money via wire transfer, phone, or text.
Additionally, NO member of the City’s Planning Commission participates in processing payments for planning and development applications. The City’s Planning Commission is a volunteer body appointed by the City Council to review and approve specific development applications and to make recommendations to the City Council on proposed changes to land use regulations and policies.
If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a City of Springfield Building or Development official or a Planning Commission member and you are unsure, feel free to call 541-726-3753 to verify the information.
If you think you’re being scammed, do not reply to the email or, if contacted by phone, hang up. Then, contact the Springfield Police Department’s non-emergency line at 541-726-3714 or your local police station.
If you are a victim of a phone or internet scam, report the incident to the FBI at www.ic3.gov.
Please share with your family, friends, and neighbors.
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About the City of Springfield:
The City of Springfield is dedicated to providing high-quality services for its community members, fostering a safe and vibrant city, and preserving its rich heritage. Through innovative initiatives and strong partnerships, Springfield strives to enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.
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