The Galesburg City Council held a discussion on re-organizing the Galesburg Youth Commission at their meeting, Tuesday, September 7th. Aldermen were all supportive but a few tweaks were suggested. Alderwoman Jaclyn Smith-Esters was instrumental in drafting the ordinance according to Thompson while collaborating with Aldermen Dwight White and Bradley Hix. Alderman Larry Cox says that he would like to see the Commission to be expanded to allow students up to 20 years old. Dwight White disagreed with that point because he says 18-year-olds have the opportunity to run for office. Cox also suggests compensating members $30 per meeting attended to give an incentive for them to participate. That’s different from the monthly $40 stipend. A final vote will be taken on the new Galesburg Youth Commission in two weeks.
Galesburg City Council were able to approve the purchase of a mobile camera trailer but unanimously tabled the vote to learn more. Council documents say that the video surveillance tool would be used for the detection and deterrence of crime. Aldermen Dwight was vocal in his concerns about the $25,000 purchase. White asked if citizens could request that police come to a particular location or neighborhood. Chief Idle says that citizens can give input but it will be up to the police. It could be used in any public place but the Chief adds there are laws that forbid a camera from being in a place in which an officer couldn’t look in. White asked for a copy of laws and regulations regarding how the trailer could be used, and that those regulations be published for public view. Alderman Kevin Wallace asked to delay the vote to become more educated on what police are and are not allowed to do with the trailer.
