Galesburg City Council on Monday night had an extensive conversation on an ordinance that would set parameters for landscaping on residential terraces. Ultimately, the measure was tabled and will be back for first reading at the next meeting. The ordinance allows plantings up to 30 inches in height except for clear vision areas at intersections with streets and driveways which limits the height in these areas to eighteen 18 inches. Alderwoman Sarah Davis says she heard there was little input from residents that wanted to be a part of drafting the ordinance. Alderman Kevin Wallace agreed and thinks there should be a meeting with residents who originally raised this issue. City Manager Todd Thompson said the administration isn't trying to subvert public comment and is open to public input through the normal first and second reading process. Alderwoman Jaclyn Smith-Esters says she thinks the new ordinance was too restrictive. Thompson pointed out the ordinance is not only far more pe
Galesburg City Council on Monday approved a mental health co-responder for the police department and the program looks to start this week. City Manager Todd Thompson says the city has been working on this program for a while and it's similar to ones in Northern Illinois. Thompson says it's a collaboration that brings in the expertise of Bridgeway and the funding from the 708 Board of Mental Health. Police Chief Russ Idle says forward-looking police departments subscribe to the tenants of 21st century policing. 21st century policing philosophy came about during the Obama administration in response to high profile police-civilian conflicts like in Ferguson, Missouri. Idle says one of the things that came out of those studies was that police departments have become a catchall for a number of crises including mental health issues. Idle says police departments are not trained, equipped, or prepared to handle people in those situations. The Chief says it's possible the program
Citizens who are looking for assistance, whether that be housing, food, childcare, or utility assistance, can find a list of potential opportunities and resources on a new webpage on the city's website. The comprehensive list was developed by city staff and covers several different areas, linking to the websites of different partners in the community. City Manager Todd Thompson says that Assistance and resources are provided by the different organizations but, sometimes, citizens are unsure where to start when looking for information. "The city was able to help fill this void, by pulling together information on programs that already exist in one easy to access location." It is important to note that information can change rapidly, and while all efforts will be made to keep the list current, citizens should always reach out directly to the agency or organization to confirm their services and availability. The Assistance Programs page can be found on the city's websi