AustinTalks (http://austintalks.org/tag/policing/)
Incumbents Chris Taliaferro and Emma Mitts could face up to three contenders on the Feb. 28th ballot, depending on whether objections are filed and how election officials rule. Several candidates also filed to run for the newly created 15th and 25th Police District Councils.
Officials hope crime will continue to drop with the help of groups like the Austin-based Institute for Nonviolence Chicago.
15th District Commander Andre Parham called the reduction in crime in Austin “unprecedented.” He officers, residents and community groups for working together.
Stop by Moore Park, 5085 W. Adams, from 5 to 7 p.m Aug. 2 to spend time with your neighbors and prevent crime. There will be free refreshments, games and giveaways. Wear red, and bring a chair.
The 15th Police District presents “Haircut and Conversation” from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. July 8th at Herb’s Barbershop, 5118 W. Chicago Ave.
The mayor and other city officials shared their plans to address the root causes of violence at a West Side public safety town hall meeting held recently. It’s one of six town halls being held across the city in March and April.
Members of the Leaders Network discussed the challenges and responsibilities of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability with its new chief, Andrea Kersten.
Participants are being sought for violence-prevention workshops that will begin soon. Organizers hope representatives from 30 to 35 groups will participate.
A six- to 12-month program is being considered by Ald. Chris Taliaferro. The high-definition cameras could be installed at any place in the ward, and residents would be able to monitor them.
State Rep. La Shawn Ford will host Saturday’s session from 10 a.m. to noon at the Kehrein Center for the Arts. As chairman of the Illinois House Public Safety and Violence Prevention Task Force, Ford is seeking input as he and other lawmakers develop legislative solutions.