Q&A Part 2: Deputy Mayor on What Comes Next After ShotSpotter
Interview with Deputy Mayor Garien Gatewood
As the city explores alternatives, Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood shares the Johnson Administration’s vision for investing in people and improving first responder technology (Photo Credit: Chicago Mayor’s Office).
With regard to the decision to terminate ShotSpotter, the Deputy Mayor emphasizes that communities deserve better options. Mayor Johnson’s focus has always been on keeping people safe and investing in people. The focal point of his entire administration has been doing just that – keeping people safe and investing in people.
Addressing Over-Policing Concerns
The Deputy Mayor acknowledges that some communities may feel over-policed. He notes that building stronger relationships with these communities and with communities overall is essential. He believes that one of the priorities of the superintendent, and the Johnson Administration, is to focus on relationships and community safety.
New Technologies Under Consideration
The Deputy Mayor is enthusiastic about exploring new technologies to replace ShotSpotter. He is excited to see what alternatives are available in the market and assess their potential for improving first responder technology.
Borrowing Ideas from Other Cities
Chicago has consulted with other cities, such as Seattle and Houston, to learn about their approaches to community safety. The Deputy Mayor has been in touch with their officials, discussing their methods and potentially adapting them for use in Chicago.
Overcoming Challenges
The Deputy Mayor emphasizes the importance of addressing concerns around over-policing when implementing new technologies. He believes that it is essential to involve the community and ensure that any new approach is collaborative and effective in reducing crime.
Bigger Plan for Keeping People Safe and Building Trust
The Deputy Mayor outlines the city’s plan to build on existing initiatives and focus on building trust with the community. He believes that people can feel safe by understanding and working closer with their government and community-based organizations. He highlights the success of initiatives like Take Back the Block, where the mayor and his cabinet work together to address community issues and improve relationships.
Conclusion
Deputy Mayor Gatewood is committed to exploring new technologies and implementing a comprehensive plan to reduce crime and build trust in Chicago. The city is dedicated to providing better options for its communities and addressing concerns around over-policing.
FAQs
What is the Johnson Administration’s vision for investing in people and improving first responder technology?
The administration aims to invest in people, improve relationships, and build trust within the community through a multi-faceted approach, including new technologies and initiatives.
What is being done to address concerns around over-policing?
The Johnson Administration is committed to addressing concerns around over-policing by building stronger relationships with the community, providing better training to officers, and implementing alternative approaches to addressing crime and improving public safety.
What new technologies is the city exploring to replace ShotSpotter?
The city is considering a range of new technologies, including alternative forms of gun detection, improved community engagement platforms, and advanced data analysis tools.
How is the city consulting with other cities to learn about their approaches to community safety?
The city is in regular contact with other cities, such as Seattle and Houston, discussing their methods and potentially adapting them for use in Chicago.
What is the city’s bigger plan for keeping people safe and building trust in Chicago?
The city is committed to building on existing initiatives and focusing on building trust with the community. This includes initiatives like Take Back the Block, where the mayor and his cabinet work together to address community issues and improve relationships.
Can the community get involved in the city’s efforts to improve community safety?
Yes, the community can get involved by attending town hall meetings, participating in community initiatives, and staying informed about city initiatives through the Chicago Defender and other local sources.
Who can the community contact with questions or concerns about the city’s initiatives?
The community can contact the Chicago Defender or the mayor’s office directly with questions or concerns about the city’s initiatives. The fifth floor of city hall is also open to the public for questions and concerns.
ShotSpotter (Photo Credit chicagojustice.org).
