Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Springfield alderwoman who recused herself from a major vote Nov. 18 is speaking her piece.

On whether the city should present voters a referendum on whether the city should enact a landlord registry, landlady and Ald. Lakeisha Purchase (pictured) didn’t vote. Now she is hearing about it.

“It’s been surprising that people have reached out,” Purchase told the WTAX Morning Newswatch. She said their comments included that “we were confused, is there something in writing, I understand your position, and, because they got to hear me at the end of the meeting, where I said I was still participating because I am a landlord participating in these workshops to say if this is what we are going to do, how much will (the fee) be per unit, where are we at?”

Purchase said she was advised to recuse herself, whereas the previous city attorney would advise to vote Present when there is a conflict of interest. She said she has asked current corporation counsel Greg Moredock for clarification.

The measure fell one Yes vote of passage a few weeks ago.