During Wednesday’s City Council meeting, aldermen sought more clarity on the future of ShotSpotter technology, while postponing a decision regarding the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) president.
ShotSpotter Controversy
The City Council voted to assume control over the future of ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection technology. Mayor Brandon Johnson called the vote “illegal” and announced plans to terminate the city’s contract with ShotSpotter this fall.
Differing Views on ShotSpotter
Chicago police describe ShotSpotter as an essential crime-fighting tool, but Mayor Johnson argues it has minimal impact on solving or preventing crime and is too expensive. Johnson, committed to ending the contract, believes the funds could be better allocated to violence prevention efforts.
In contrast, about 30 City Council members support retaining ShotSpotter, claiming it enables police to respond quickly to crimes and potentially save lives. This group introduced an order to extend the contract and collect more data on its benefits.
Alderman Brian Hopkins, chairman of the Chicago Public Safety Committee, stated, “We have to assert our authority on this, and so that’s what this is an attempt to do. There’s a clear majority that want ShotSpotter, and so we’re going to go forward despite the mayor’s opposition.”
Ordinance and Data Collection
The ordinance passed, mandating data collection through the contract’s end in November. It also stipulates that removing ShotSpotter from any ward would require a full Council vote. However, Mayor Johnson contends the ordinance is not legal and may veto it.
“This particular measure that was voted on today did nothing. This City Council and the legislative body does not have the executive authority,” Johnson said. He reiterated his campaign promise to end the contract, arguing the money is better spent on violence prevention.
Support and Opposition
Thirty-four City Council members voted against the mayor. Alderman Anthony Beale emphasized the need to balance campaign promises with the city’s best interests, while Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez advocated for alternative safety measures focusing on prevention.
Supporters, including Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, argue ShotSpotter’s value in situations where people do not call 911 after hearing gunshots. Snelling noted that the technology allows for faster police response and potentially saves lives.
ShotSpotter’s parent company, SoundThinking, expressed gratitude for public support and the City Council decision, emphasizing the importance of transparency and effective public safety outcomes.
CTA President’s Future
Alderman Andre Vasquez introduced a resolution calling for CTA President Dorval Carter Jr.‘s resignation, citing concerns over safety, service shortfalls, and declining ridership. Vasquez, supported by dozens of council members, criticized Carter’s handling of customer service and ridership issues.
“So, although President Carter has done a good job of getting funds and doing larger infrastructure projects, when it comes to the customer service part of the role, which is about increasing ridership and we need reliability and safety, it’s time for new leadership,” Vasquez said.
CTA’s Response
The CTA refuted the resolution’s claims, asserting that ridership is increasing and crime is decreasing. The resolution was sent to the Rules Committee and could come up for a full City Council vote as early as June.
Conclusion
The City Council’s actions on ShotSpotter and the CTA president highlight ongoing debates over public safety and transit management in Chicago. As the city navigates these challenges, the outcomes of these decisions will significantly impact residents and the broader community.