to order. We now have a roll call to establish Quorum.
Please note that a, yes, B. Um, in response may be deemed
as a, yes. Vote. When the Quorum call is um, or later items
called chairman Telly arrows here. Vice chair. Lamont
Robinson.
Alderman Hall.
Alderman Mitchell. Just saw him.
Alderwoman Lee.
Alderman. Curtis
Alderwoman Taylor.
Alderman Mosley.
Alderwoman tabaris.
Alderman Irving.
Alderman, Cardona.
Alderman spaz.
Alderwoman nent.
Alderman, de politano.
Alderman kiten.
Alderwoman clay.
Alderwoman Silverstein.
Alderman. Irvin's present.
we have 11 members present, we do have a quorum of pursuant
to rule 59
Alderman, Gardiner.
Has requested uh, to appear by video conference. Can I get
a motion for the approval of aldermen Gardner to appear? By
remote means,
So moved by.
Alderman, Cardona, all those in favor. Say I
All those opposed nay and opinion of the chair. The eyes
have it, the motion carries Alderman. Gardner, are you
present? Yes, sir, thank you chairman. Thank you.
I made this time, we'll begin public, comment. Each speaker
will be allowed at 3 minutes, our first speaker. Um for the
day is Paul dravic Paul dravic
Hi everybody. My name is Paul dravic, I'm a journalist with
an outlet called The Gateway Fund. It, I'm here
representing a uh,
Save save, Illinois Coalition where we're trying to put
together a petition with 350,000 signatures by March of
2026 to remove Sanctuary status from the state of Illinois.
And the City of Chicago, uh, briefly my partner, Terry
gnome and I, we have a podcast as well. Um, we've done a
lot of reporting on the, the illegal immigration problem in
Illinois, in the city of Chicago. And the reason being is
when Brandon Johnson had, uh, started impounding buses that
were coming from Texas to Chicago, they started coming into
the suburbs. So we started paying attention, and we did
multiple foyer requests and um, 1 of the things I'd like to
point out is that through these foyer requests. We we
noticed that with the illegal immigration problem that was
being imported into Chicago. So, was a lot of crime and
some disturbing crimes that we've uncovered. We can provide
those foyer requests responses to you, but some of the
crimes are disturbing. Uh, child abuse sexual assault, we
found evidence of
Human trafficking at some of these facilities, like The
Standard Club of Chicago and, uh, the in Chicago, on some
other areas.
Now, I'm I live in the suburbs, I used to live in Chicago.
My grandparents were raised here and, um, you know, I know
it sounds weird me, being from the suburbs is coming here
and speaking about this. But, you know, I I'm also a
veteran, I fought in the Iraq War. And we've, we've
interviewed people, uh, in the streets of Chicago homeless
veterans, and the City of Chicago, not only
Is importing these kind of crimes through with legal
immigrants, but they're also spending 600 million plus
dollars on these citizens. So, um, we're asking our police
to manage citizens who who are who, who to manage
non-citizens who are committing crimes while people are on
the streets. Freezing, its 10 degrees outside right now.
There's a legal immigrant. It's all across the city who
have food shelter, right? And and and we're also engaging
FEMA to help with this response. We have 20 uh,
Congressional delegates who have written to FEMA asking for
20 million dollars of funding. Okay? So I just want you to
know and I want you to report to the other aldermen at the
city, council meeting that the city of Chicago. This is
not, this is a not a partisan issue. The city of Chicago,
the government of Chicago is sacrificing the
Needs of its own citizens and leaving people out on the
streets to die.
And to lose limbs in the freezing temperatures, of Chicago,
while non-citizens are are getting food shelter clothing
and the same time, they're committing crimes against each
other, but against the citizens, of the city of Chicago,
like I said, sexual assault, human trafficking battery,
theft, they're getting guns somehow, they're getting cars
somehow. So thank you, Mr. David, our next speaker, Mr.
Looks like Terry gnome
Thank you for your time. My name's Terry Newsome. I'm
elected committee man from Donna's Grove Township. I host
the podcast behind the lines, and I'm also with the save
Illinois Coalition. Why am I here from the suburbs? I'm
here, because Chicago is welcoming city ordinance, this
ordinance, the way it's currently written in its form, is
not only dangerous to the citizens of Chicago. It's a
problem for the whole Chicago land area, my neighbor was
robbed by Venezuela and stun the block from me. It's not a
Democrat Republican. Independent black white, hispanic
Italian wealthy or low-income Province, American problem,
wanting a safe Community for our families is not racist.
It's not an anti-immigrant stance, my grandparents came to
America from Italy. We Embrace legal immigrants while the
port in criminal illegal immigrants who we can't Embrace
while we can, uh, Deport a criminal illegal immigrants. The
most significant risks are minorities, law enforcement and
First Responders we've been lied to for years claiming
illegal immigrants. Flooding Chicago engaged in fewer
crimes than citizens, that's an absolute line of insult.
Our intelligence,
I have evidence to support my claims. I gather doesn't
afford US from CPD to show the contrary. Every shelter I
requested for, as I've received hundreds of violent
despicable crimes that came from Within These shelters or
those who use those addresses inside the shelters, there
was evidence, there's a terror attacks sex trafficking,
c*********, child, grooming sexual assault of minors,
murder mass shootings gain crimes.
Guns, stolen vehicles, prostitution drug dealing and and
much more including, uh, vehicles are being given to these
people. By the way, some of the most common crimes is
spousal abuse. These men beat the crap out of their women.
They strangle them, punch them in the face, hit them with
the vortex phone, drag them by the hair, cut them with
knives and other weapons in the face. They even beat their
children to retaliate against their wives. The spousal
abuse became such a significant problem. I acquired a 4 of
where Catholic Charities, I'm a Catholic, not a good 1 uh
Catholic charity, sent an email to the city of Chicago
informing them, they had to reopen a shelter to house the
growing number of Abused Women and Children. I want this
Administration to explain why if these immigrants create
less crimes than us? Then why are they required to go
through multiple layers of security before answering the
shelters? I was at Gage Park Standard Club in a Chicago,
Little Village 72nd, and Cicero and others where I
confronted ARA and I have evidence. I'll share with you
guys and they're boldly flashing. Their gang signs at me
when they're just coming into the United States if they're
innocent. Asylum Seekers
Why do they have to pass through all these metal detectors
and handheld security ones? Multiple guarder World security
guards bag searches. If these people commit such little
crime. Why are we doing intensive security? Screening to
make matters worse? We taxpayers are funding our own
demise. We fund the transportation food, clothing, medical
credit cards, utilities free, impounded cars and much more
including the tax-funded vortex phone, which they use fake
identities to commit crimes against the community. I urge
the city to amend those Chicago's. Welcome city ordinance
to prioritize American citizens before criminal illegal
immigrants. And I have for anyone that wants, I have
thousands of police voyages and evidence that I could
share. Thank you, Mr. Gnome, our next speaker is Miss
Jessica Jackson. Miss Jackson.
the chair recognizes, um,
ultimate Vasquez, that's present.
Just as present.
Miss Jackson.
okay, well, the reality is that in order for our needs to
met as Citizens and our concerns to be heard as Citizens.
Citizens. The reality is, we really got to wait for the
next 6 days until Donald Trump gets in office.
Because when he gets in office, there will be a concern
about the American citizens needs coming first. So, just
hold on, just hold on. Like, all of us trying to do we just
holding on. Until I help comes. All right. Now, with that
being said, until then we have to suffer through silly
things silly. Things like my ultimate. Greg Mitchell
getting up and running when he see that, I'm gonna come to
the mic because he know what happened on September 19th.
He knows that you.
Him.
Bill Laurie and the M Williams went in that meeting with
those public administrators and my case end up getting
dismissed the next day.
And you would think that you all would be so upset about
that if you all were innocent in that.
That you would fight for me and you will go against those
white judges and those white public administrators that did
it. But no instead the black Alderman choose to be mad at
me.
you want to be mad at us because we speaking up for
ourselves
but it doesn't matter because I know with my rights are and
I'm going to keep on pushing for my rights and anybody and
I do mean anybody,
Who comes against me and tries to come against my rights.
What ends up happening is, you end up being what I call a
defendant, on a federal case.
I don't have my rights being violated and it's okay.
I'm not that person.
And it's so unfortunate that our leadership for the city is
so weak.
So weak that you all have allowed a failed, fourth grade
teacher.
To mess up our city like this, and to think that y'all
gonna keep your seats. So let me get to what's really
happening and that's famous Friday for this Friday and
we're gonna go ahead and make y'all famous. We're Gonna
Make You Famous, Zoe Lee at 6 oclock on YouTube, tune in
for who we gonna be famous this week is going to be? Oh
yeah, Alderman, William Conway. Yeah. William Conway. Yeah.
Cause he think as a prosecutor he don't have to implement
the laws of this city.
But we going to make him famous 6. Oclock on YouTube. Zoe
Lee's Channel, l e. I g h. And look at make, you famous
Friday where we going to highlight Alderman, William,
Conway, boom.
Thank you, Miss Jackson. Our next speaker Mr. George
Blakemore Mr. Blakemore
I'm so glad that they are here because they can actually
see a non-functional city government. They come from the
suburb.
And and and and that you all are calling Problems by the
suburb.
Of they go out there. It's something inherently wrong with
the system and down here, you have a real appointments
appointments and substitute appointments, where are these
people?
Where are they see why they should be here and you should
ask them that question? Why do you want to be reappointed?
What, what have you did or done? My mother said, you get
your verbs and now it's mixed up. But why those 4 people to
be here?
Are there, are you all here? Raise your hand if you're
here.
Which 1 of you are the 4 that's going to be on the police
board.
Well, well if if that that's the 4 over there, you ask them
these questions. What did you do in the past, but what is
your mission for the board?
But ask them questions.
As I'm all kind of questions.
But so I'm glad that they're here and and we're not the
enemy.
I'm so glad that white people are coming from the suburb.
To see exactly. And they got a part.
So I'm gonna ask them to help me on that part, okay? And
and they gonna go back and they, they already got my
picture. I want, what would you do with home and come here?
That means I said, oh Hallelujah, when he gets here and
clean this dude up, there's all the Democrats assessed
through a Democrats in the city of Chicago. All of them.
So it's very important for for fair involvement. Can you
see sir that? These mean look, there's nobody here.
There's nobody here. That's why we have a non damn function
of government.
Nobody's here, they don't care.
They do not care.
So thank you, my white brothers by another mama and they
are the prayers.
And they're gonna go back to their constituents. And and I
want you to invite me to, uh, because I need to be seen and
heard and the ancestors. Uh, appreciate me. It's evil here.
It's corrupt here. It's it's terrible here.
And you didn't know it was this bad did you?
Well, you know it now.
They have another meeting going on over here probably now,
you know it now see the people don't know, they should be
televised all over the world about how corrupt the city of
Chicago.
Thank you, Mr. Blake Moore, we have no further public
speakers. Thank each of you, each of you for your comments
today. Our pursuit of the roof, 59 Alderman, Robertson and
alderwoman Silverstein has requested to appear. By remote
means, can I get a motion for the approval of all the
alderman Robertson and alderwoman Silverstein, uh, to
repair by a remote means?
So moved by alderwoman Lee.
All those approve approved. Say I all of those opposed say,
nay an opinion of it, an opinion of the chair, the eyes
have it.
Alderwoman Silverstein. Have you joined us?
Yes, I am here chairman. Thank you Alderman. Robinson.
Alderman Robinson.
Okay, we'll wait till Alderman Robinson, joins us chairman.
I'm here. Thank you. Thank you, alderman.
Each of you should have received by email um, on October
25th 2024, the room 45 report, um, for the meeting that was
held on October.
24 of 2024. Are there any questions and comments about the
roof 45 report?
There being no questions. Can we get the, um, approval of
the roof? 45, um, report so move.
So so moved by alderwoman, Clay.
All those in favor. Say I I all those those opposed say nay
and opinion of the chair, the eyes have it, the room for
the motion carries in the room. 45 report is approved.
The item before the committee, we have 4 items actually
before the committee. Uh, we have the appointment or the
arlet G Porter uh to the police board. The appointment of
Cynthia Vasquez to the police board. The reappointment of
Stephen a block as a member of the police board, and the
substitute appointment of Tyler C Hall as a member of the
police board. Um, before we move forward, uh, the re of the
substitute appointment, uh, for uh, Mr. Hall is because
there was a incorrect date that was submitted. Um, the
Date of termination, which is August 28th of 2029. Instead
of, I believe 20, I'm sorry of 2028 instead of the date
that was submitted of 2029. Um, so can I get a motion to,
uh,
Can I get a motion to, um, accept the substitute
appointment of Tyler C Hall as a member of the police board
and to committee?
so moved, um, all those in favor, say I
All of those opposed say, nay and opinion of the chairs,
the eyes have it. And the substitute appointment is before
the committee
Before we go into our vote, I want to give an opportunity
um for each of our appointees who've joined us today. And
by the way um
Stephen block because of a family emergency. I will not be
able to join us today. Um, but he will hear at our last
meeting and we did get an opportunity to speak to, uh, the
committee members
uh, but he is uh, has joined us um, via remote means
Um, I'd like to give each 1 of the um appointees and re
appointees an opportunity to speak starting with Miss arlet
Porter. Um, each of you will have about 3 or 5 3 to 5
minutes to address the members of the committee and counts.
Thank you, Miss Porter, and thank you for joining us.
Good morning, good afternoon, chair, Vice chair, and
committee members. My name is Arlette Porter and I come to
you, seeking your consideration support and appointment to
the Chicago Police board.
I was born and raised in Chicago growing up in the Third
Ward on 46th and Wabash. I attended Coleman Elementary
School in Dabo High School graduating as saludan
As the third child, third, oldest child of 10 children. I
spent 21 years as the only girl among 7 Brothers, until my
mom gave birth
On my birthday to twin sisters. So, all 3 girls are born on
the same day.
I attended undergrad at Lake Forest College and completed,
my Master's Degree at Chicago State University. I obtained
a paralegal certification from Roosevelt University in a
real estate, salesperson's license from Prairie State
College. After spending, 22 years as a patent and trade
market, Administrative Assistant, I attended the John
Marshall Law School
Over the course of my career. I have served in many
capacities. I am a commissioner for the Christian
Fellowship, volleyball, and basketball league, that
provides basketball, and volleyball opportunities, for over
200 Youth, and Young adults.
and with claim Chicago legal aid, for incarcerated mothers,
where I regularly visited incarcerated mothers,
And provided legal advice.
I am also a member panel member of the attorney
registration and disciplinary commission, which is
essentially the policing Agency for attorneys, we are
responsible for cutting conducting hearings and trials and
making final decisions on complaints brought to the
commission regarding an attorney.
After reviewing pleadings reviewing evidence hearing
testimony reviewing the relevant law, statutes and rules.
We are called upon to re render a decision on appropriate
discipline if any, given the nature of the complaint.
I am currently a sole practitioner in the area of emotional
law. Domestic relations family, law child, support divorce
as a true sole practitioner. I handle all aspects of my
cases, all preparation of documents research hearings and
trials. I am also a court-appointed advocate for children
serving as a guardian at lightum and child representative
and I'm frequently appointed to
Represent underprivileged adults in contempt matters,
usually involving child support matters.
As a guardian at Liam and child rep. I am often called upon
to make tough decisions regarding the best interests of the
child pursuing to my investigation, home visits
observations, and the statutes.
Upon my appointment to the Chicago Police board. I stand
committed to advocating for justice and Equity not only for
police officers but for the public as well.
These are difficult times. And public service is a profound
responsibility and privilege.
I believe when trust is eroded, it takes years sometimes
decades to rectify, it is my intent to exemplify, the high
standards set by the Chicago, Police board, by rendering
Fair, impartial sound and well-reasoned decisions in scans,
by application of the law rules, statutes, and codes of the
city of Chicago and state of Illinois. Thank you. All for
your kind consideration and support and I seek your
approval of my appointment to the Chicago Police board.
Thank you, Miss Porter.
Our next speaker, um, appointee will be Cynthia Velasquez.
Good morning, chairman talifero, Vice chairman Robinson,
and committee members. I am here before you to be
considered for an appointment to the city of Chicago Police
board.
A little bit about my background, I grew up in the suburbs
and took the train into the city to attend, concerts go to
museums. And as a teenager hang out at the beach,
it was my dream to 1 Day live in this wonderful City. It
would be an honor to be able to serve the city.
I currently live in the 43rd Ward where I am a board member
for the neighborhood association and I chair 2 committees.
I have 2 daughters and 2 granddaughters who live in the
city which motivates my service to keeping this city, the
best city in the country.
I graduated from Western Illinois University with a
bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement Administration. I
joined the army after college and eventually went on to
obtain, my master's degree in organizational, behavior from
Benedict University,
I attended the Chicago Police Academy as a Lombard, Police
Department recruit in 1990.
My various assignments, as police officer included Patrol
investigations school resource officer. And as the
accreditation manager, I was responsible for authoring and
updating policies and general orders.
I retired from the Lombard Police Department, as the deputy
chief after 29 years of service.
Throughout my career, I have conducted many internal
investigations for my agency.
Because of my ability to be fair objective and unbiased.
I've been asked to conduct third-party internal
investigations for other law enforcement agencies.
I've also been requested to sit on assessment panels for
police promotions for agencies throughout the state.
Additionally, I was asked to sit on a panel to select the
police chief for Kenosha. Wisconsin.
I mentioned my above experience not to boast but to exhibit
my reputation for an impartial and objective viewpoint.
I first became interested in the board when a police board
member came and spoke at a community commission for Public
Safety and accountability meeting.
She explained the function and responsibilities of the
police board, all of which sparked my interest.
as I looked into the board viewed, some videos and saw the
professionalism, I knew it was something I wanted to be a
part of
It would be an honor to obtain a favorable consideration to
the police board. Thank you for your time.
Thank you. Miss Velasquez our next appointee will be Mr.
Tyler Hall.
Good morning. Chairman tal talifero, Vice chairman
and esteemed members of the committee on police and fire.
It has been a pleasure to speak with those. I have
connected with within the past few days and to those I have
not been able to connect with. I look forward to speaking
with you in the future. I am honored to appear before you
as a nominee, for the Chicago Police board. And I thank you
for this opportunity to share my qualifications and vision
for this vital role. I'll start with some personal
information. I'm originally from Evans and and attended EV
Township High School. I then attended winberg University in
Springfield Ohio, the community. Most people had never
heard of until some comments were made during a
presidential debate about the safety of the local, cats and
dogs.
After returning to the area, I pursued my graduate graduate
degree in public administration. With a specialization in
City management from Northern Illinois, University, I'm
happily married to a veterinarian. She explains why our
household requires constant vacuuming due due to our 3
dogs. We currently live in the Logan Square neighborhood in
the 26 Ward. And I've resided in Chicago since 2015.
I currently work as a senior adviser with Downing
Community, advisors we provide Municipal advisory services
to assist communities with their Economic Development and
housing.
Prior to my current position. My career was in public
service with over a decade of experience in local
government including roles in Municipal management and
police Administration as assistant Village manager for the
village of Homewood. I served as the staff liaison to the
board of fire and police Commissioners where I guided
disciplinary views, promotional processes and hiring
considerations. I also recommended updates to the board's
rules and regulations to address to address a existing
challenges in the police department in this role. I also
chair The Villages executive safety team, overseeing
initiatives to enhance. Workplace, safety and
organizational accountability.
As accreditation manager for the city of Highland Park
Police Department. I had the privilege of leading the
agency agency through, its fifth successful, kala
accreditation,
This process involved, a comprehensive review and update of
department policies and standard operating procedures to
align. With nationally recognized best practices in law
enforcement, I work closely with Command Staff and officers
to implement these changes ensuring. They are both
compliant and practical for day-to-day operations. This
experience, reinforced my understanding of the critical
role that sound policies. Play in promoting accountability,
transparency and public Trust.
While working with the Arlington, Heights Police
Department, I managed over 1.5 million dollars in grant
funding for critical Public Safety initiatives. This
included securing federal funds to implement a crisis
co-responder team embedding mental health professionals
within the department to respond to calls involving
individuals in crisis. I also led the Department's
Community addiction and Recovery effort, a grant funded
program. That connected individuals with substance use
disorders to treatment services. Additionally, I was
responsible for drafting an updating Police Department
general orders to maintain compliance with accreditation
standards and to ensure policies reflected the best
practices and legal requirements.
Chicago Police board plays a critical role in fostering
trust between the police department and the communities. It
serves, I'm excited about this potential appointment and it
would be my first opportunity to serve in a public service
role, as a resident of the community. I live in, rather
than the administrative professional roles. I've held
throughout my career.
If I am fortunate enough to serve as a board member, I will
bring a focus on accountability fairness and transparency.
I believe that ensuring that disciplinary processes are
thorough and impartial and that policies reflect the
principles of the 21st century constitutional policing and
that the voices of Chicago's diverse communities are heard
and respected.
I recognize the challenges ahead but remain steadfast in my
belief that collaborative Community focused Solutions can
strengthen our Public Safety Systems and build trust. If my
appointment is confirmed. I look forward to working with my
fellow board members city leaders, and residents of Chicago
to ensure a safer more Equitable City for all. Thank you
for your time and consideration. Thank you, Mr. Hall, our
last um, appointee is Mr. Stephen block.
Mr. Block.
Can you hear me, chairman?
Thank you. You go ahead and proceed. Thank you.
Good morning, chairman tell Aero Vice chairman Robinson and
members of the committee. My name is Steven block and I
would like to thank you for the opportunity to appear
before you today as the committee, considers my
reappointment to the Chicago Police board. And I would like
to especially, thank you for allowing me to appear
remotely. I'm very sorry. I can't be there in person. I
plan to, but I have a, uh, a 6 on home from school. And I
need to be home with them. So I appreciate the
consideration.
Um,
Serving on the police board. For the past 3 years, has been
a tremendous honor as the father of 3 children, the safety
of our communities and having an effective professional and
trusted. Police Department are critically important to me.
That is why I'd be grateful for the opportunity to continue
to serve.
Let me tell you a little bit about myself and why I found
my work on the police board to be so meaningful and why I'm
seeking a reappointment
I've been a resident of Chicago for the past 28 years and
my wife and I are committed to raising our family here.
My 2, young children are in elementary school in the north
side and my eldest daughter is a senior at Jones college
prep in the South Loop.
In addition to my work on the police board, I'm active in
the community in several other capacities.
In 2021 Governor pritzker appointed me to the Illinois
torture inquiry and relief commission where I'm now the
longest serving commissioner.
The torture inquiry and relief commission, which was formed
to address, the torture inflicted on suspects at area, 2
police headquarters in the 1970s and 80s.
investigates claims of torture was used to obtain,
confessions leading to criminal convictions and where
warranted provided. A means for the individual to obtain
additional judicial review
I also serve on a board committee at my younger children's
school. And for the past several years, I have volunteered
to coach baseball at Wells park.
When not volunteering in the community, I'm a partner at
the law firm Holland and Knight where I focus on government
enforcement, White Collar, criminal defense and litigation.
Prior to returning to Private Practice, I served for 10
years as an assistant us attorney in Chicago.
As a federal, prosecutor assigned to the narcotics and
public corruption units. I worked with dozens of dedicated
and talented police officers and federal agents.
Together. We investigated and prosecuted significant cases.
Targeting a violent street, gangs drug cartels and
organized crime organizations.
Our city is undeniably safer because of the efforts of these
law enforcement officers.
Throughout my career, I've worked to hold accountable
individuals including police officers. Who have violated
The public's Trust?
I believe it's important to recognize that while the
actions of a few can have a negative impact. They don't
Define the entire department.
The vast majority of officers work, tirelessly, and with
dedication to serve their communities.
As a member of the police board for the past 3 years, I've
always been committed to basing decisions on the evidence.
Understanding that both of these things can be true.
That most officers are committed professionals. And that
there are a small number who may engage in conduct that
requires accountability.
If I am reappointed to the police board, I promise to
continue to fairly and impartially evaluate the evidence
and please disciplinary cases and render decisions based
solely on the evidence presented just as I have done for
the past 3 years,
I thank you again for the opportunity to address you today
and I look forward to any questions from the committee.
Thank you Mr. Chairman
Thank you, Mr. Block, are there any questions or comments
from the committee or council members for um either of the
appointees?
All the woman tailor.
My question to you all, is why?
Why, why would you want to do this? We're a city in chaos.
I'm just being honest.
We spend millions in police.
Cases, that never seem to go away. No real accountability.
What do you on all honestly? Feel like you could add
As being members of the police board to see some real
change that the city and us can kind of be proud of, and
that's to everybody. Let's start with Mr. Um, um, Mr. Hall.
Yes, thank you for the question. Um,
so I recently transitioned out into a private sector role,
I'll be working with multiple clients and my entire career
beforehand was in public service. Um, public service is
also kind of popular in my family. I have a brother who's a
naval intelligence officer. My, my uncle is a retired
Chicago firefighter. My my grandfather worked for
Department of Homeland Security. Um,
Since stepping away into the private sector. I I feel um
kind of a, a motivation and intrinsic obligation to kind of
serve the community and based on my prior experience, um, I
I feel confident in my ability to hopefully succeed in the
role and um I kind of have a a sense of Duty to help the
city where I live.
Thank you, Mr. Hall, Miss Velasquez. Um, I want to increase
the public and the police officers confidence in the
process and throughout my whole entire life. Uh, I've never
been in something just for the good times. And I realize
the times that we are in right now,
And we do need to increase that confidence and throughout
my marriage throughout my career, throughout every
friendships, never have, I tapped out when things have
gone, uh, South and and downhill. And uh I don't do things
just for the popularity. I don't give in to
a popular opinion I give in to I shouldn't say I give in to
but um I make decisions based on facts and based on what
has really occurred. Not just what's going to be popular.
And again uh, I realized we are in a difficult time right
now and
I don't do things just for the happiness of it, or for the
popularity, or just for, uh, the positivity of things. I'm
in here for the long run, to do the right thing.
And Miss Porter.
Along with what my esteemed colleagues have also said, as I
indicated before, these are difficult times.
And we need to put the trust.
Back in the public for the Chicago Police board. It's my
intent to advocate for uh, policies that promote access to
to Justice. Uh, strengthen the professional developments
we've uh already established and uphold the high standards
standards of the Chicago Police board. Um, I've never been
away from adversity, uh, as a member of the ardc. Uh, we
Uh, we make the tough decisions, and I anticipate that
there are going to have to be some tough decisions. That
will have to be made, uh, as a member of the Chicago Police
board panel, and I believe that we can do that.
And lastly, Mr. Black
Thank you and and I I I do really appreciate the question
um, because this is a, a fraught time to be sure. Um,
I'll tell you having served on this board for the past 3
years. Um, I I'm actually somewhat optimistic um because I
get to be in these executive sessions.
Are in private with a group of Chicago and to all come from.
Different backgrounds, different experiences, different
life experiences. And what I have found is that
We really have take to heart. You know what? Barack Obama
said about disagreeing and not being disagreeable. These
are people who have different perspectives with whom I
disagree often and often disagree with me. And then we, we
share, we share a bite of food together and we talk about
our families and we're done.
And it's been amazing to see how group people coming
together can make hard decisions like that, um, even in a
fraud time. So, I hope that answers your question that I
actually feel optimistic having done this before, even
though I know there's difficult days ahead.
Thank you, Mr. Black, thank you chairman. Thank you order.
1 Taylor, older woman nugget
Thank you, Mr. Chair. Uh, chairman I just wanted to to make
a comment. I had the, the pleasure of chatting with all of
all of the nominees. Um, quite lengthy conversations with
everybody and I really appreciate it. The perspective they
they brought um,
To the role and they all seem fiercely independent with a
unique. Um,
Sense of obligation for public service, which I thought was
really welcome and refreshing. I will be supporting all of
the, the nominees for the board. I think they're great
candidates and um, as always, I just encourage you to
continue to assert that Independence you in this role as
Mr. Black can attest as he's a reappointment
you get the hardest of the hard cases and so I just
continued to ask you to assert that Independence in this
role because I think it's very critical. And we will look
to this board, uh, probably more now than than ever
particularly with, um, disagreements between Coppa and the
police department. So thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman,
thank you. Any other questions or comments?
Alderman. Ervin.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, uh, the the uh group of, uh, slate
slate of nominees here, look like, they have a nice balance
of, uh, uh, professional, uh, community and, um, other
experience. And so, um, I, I think the the question that,
uh, chairman Taylor has was appropriate and also, um, how
do we
On the heels of Reform uh, move.
the department, uh,
to be more reform-minded, um, and in your review policy and
or even discipline, uh, how do you send that message, uh,
to the department that it's, uh, you know, clear
unequivocal that hey, we have to move in a different
direction in order to, um, do what's best for the in the
best interest of the city of Chicago?
Either 1.
Um looks like looks like a Miss Velasquez is stepping up to
to the plate. Yes, sir. I believe it starts with leadership
and it's not just something that the leadership should talk
about. Not just because it's the law or if it's the safety
act, or any type of law enforcement reform.
Its uh something we need to practice. And again, it's
starts with that leadership and if the troops see that the
leadership is taking the stance that this is where we're
headed and this is the future of law enforcement.
And they see that their leaders are practicing that then
they're more likely to have the Buy in, to do the things we
need to do to.
Make this profession, an even greater profession and to add
some professionalism. And so I would say it starts with at
the top with the leadership and and doing the things we
need to do not just reading a policy or a general order at
roll call and um and being dismissive about it. Uh, we have
to practice it and put it into real life situations.
I also believe that if we Foster collaboration and
engagement across, you know, the diverse segments of
society. Uh, we are bound to come up with a workable plan
that's palatable for all.
Thank you. Uh, just to add to that. Um,
My experience working as a civilian uh within police
departments for approximately 8 years, uh, I find Community
engagement and just discussions between sworn Workforce and
civilian Workforce and and community members really helps
break down perceived barriers um between kind of to help in
enhance the public trust um and kind of the US versus them
mentality helps break that down. So I think Community
engagement and Outreach is in addition to leadership and
sound policies, and actually following the policies, um, is
a crucial step in that reform process.
Thank you. Any other questions? If I may just just quickly,
add to that, sorry? I I think that um, 1 Thing, the police
board can do, um, to address. The issue is to think about
what we say, when we write our, our, our disciplinary
decisions that our public facing, um, I would say,
oftentimes when we're writing decisions, we are not just
writing them with the parties in mind, you know, the
officer and the superintendent or Coppa. We do think of it
in terms of what the broader Department might take from it.
And it's not unusual for us to write in a decision uh to
identify some training gaps or suggest additional training.
Um, so I think it's an important role we have as well is we
can really use that tool because we do issue public
opinions to say what we want to say publicly to the
Department.
Thank you Alderman. Ervin. No. Thank you. Thank you for your
uh responses to that. I know you all have a a very unique
role. You're kind of like sandwiched in between the
department and um, ccpsa and all the things that are going
on there. So appreciate you all uh, you know, uh,
volunteering your time to participate in this process and
and again I'll be supporting All 4 of the nominees.
Thank you, Alderman. Any other questions or comments?
uh well let me just say I'm very quickly um, before we
close our meeting, uh I certainly appreciate um, each of
your um,
Stepping up to serve the city of Chicago and the Chicago
Police Department in this residence as well. Um,
As, as Alderman, Ervin, um, articulated it. It's, it's very
unique role but it's also a very difficult 1 as well.
Because you're going to be making some very serious
decisions and that impact our our public and impact the
lives and families of our police officers and civilian
members as well to some degree. And and so, I want to ask
you to always carefully, consider, uh, the cases that are
before you, uh, certainly in. And I think each of you bring
a your own, um, experiences to the table, as you look at
the general orders and the rules and regulations of the
Chicago Police Department, um, and the facts that will be
presented to you. So I, I just simply ask that you, um,
review them.
Carefully, as you make your decisions. And I, again, I want
to thank you for appearing here today before the committee.
Um, and I, um, I want to thank you for, uh, stepping up to
the plate and and serving the city of Chicago with that.
There's no further questions or comments, can I get a
motion? And we're going to vote on each 1 individually of
course it's um. Uh, we'll do it very quickly.
Uh, can I get a motion for the approval of item? Number 1
to a 201202414222, the reappointment of Steven block is a
member of the Chicago Police board. So moved by alderman,
they'll move by Alderman, Ervin all those in favor. Say I
All those opposed nay.
And opinion of the chair. The eyes have it?
Congratulations. Mr. Block on your reappointment. This
matter will be presented out, um, at the next meeting of
the city council on January 15th. 2025, can I get a motion
for the approval of item? Number 2, 202414223 the
appointment arlet G Porter as a member of the police board.
So moved by all the woman clay.
all of those opposed, please say I
All those, um, did I say approve? I missed your parlay.
Are are and I had a few cases together, so it's okay. If I
can do the um, all those in support of say, I all those
opposed nay
Any opinion to chair the eyes, have it, the motion carries
and congratulations. Miss reported out in the next meeting
of the city council on January 15th. 2025, can I get a
motion for the approval of item? Number 38202414224, the
appointment of Cynthia Velasquez as a member of the police
board? So moved by alderman kitson
All those in favor. Say, I
All those opposed say nay and opinion of the chair. Um
chair of the eyes, have it, the motion carries and
congratulations, Miss Velasquez. Um, this matter will be
reported out also on January 15th, the next meeting of the
city council and lastly, for the substitute appointment of
Mr. Tyler, C Hall item, number 4, A
202414224.
Oh no. Actually it is not it's just item. Number 4 is a
substitute. Um all those approved say I well can I get a
motion first Alderman? Ervin
All those in favor. Say, I
All of those opposed nay.
An opinion to chair the eyes, have it? Congratulations, Mr.
Uh, Mr. Hall
Um, this item bill will be reported out on January 15th as
well.
There being no further business before the committee. Um,
can I get a motion for the adjourn? So, move all the all
those in favor. Say I
All those opposed.
And the pain that the chair, the eyes have it and this
meeting is adjourned. Thank you guys so much for appearing.
We actually started on time today.