Mayor Johnson is exploring new technologies to replace ShotSpotter, while Alderman Lopez pushes for his own pilot program in Chicago
Lopez announced his plans to use acoustic detectors, infrared cameras, and drones in the Back of the Yards neighborhood. He says it won’t cost the city a dime, but he needs Johnson’s green light to get started.
Lopez, who often criticizes the mayor, pointed out that Johnson had said he was open to new ideas. So, he’s calling on the mayor to back his plan. The mayor’s team only found out about Lopez’s initiative the night before he went public, which raised some eyebrows.
Deputy Mayor Garien Gatewood mentioned that they’re all for working with anyone who wants to help keep the city safe. But it would have been nice to know about Lopez’s plans earlier.
Johnson’s team is already deep into finding a replacement for ShotSpotter. They’ve received a bunch of responses from tech vendors and are moving on to the next step soon.
While they’re working on that, they’ve started testing some new first responder tech. Gatewood didn’t spill the beans on what they’re testing, but he said they’re focusing on high-crime areas.
The goal is to have a solid product ready by summer. They’re taking their time to make sure it’s done right.
To prep for the new tech, the city even checked its surveillance cameras and trimmed over 300 trees that were blocking views. They’re also running workshops on gunshot wound care and providing resources in high-violence areas.
But Lopez thinks the mayor is moving too slowly. He’s worried that summer is coming fast, and his community can’t afford to wait any longer.
The ShotSpotter system, which used sensors to alert police about gunfire, was scrapped by Johnson last September. He criticized it for being ineffective and too costly, despite many aldermen wanting to keep it until a replacement was found.
Lopez is excited about the tech he’s proposing, which combines various detection methods and has been used in military settings. He believes it’s a great opportunity to try something new.
Gatewood mentioned that the city has been in talks with the company behind Lopez’s tech, but they didn’t respond to the city’s request for information. He emphasized that the focus should be on reducing crime and working together for the city’s safety.
