Chicago alders take significant step toward preserving ShotSpotter

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago alderpersons took a significant step toward preserving the city's contract for ShotSpotter, the controversial gunshot detection system, but they remained very far from overcoming Mayor Brandon Johnson's opposition.

The city council voted 33-14 to give Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling authority to extend the ShotSpotter contract, which is set to expire next week.

Far North Side Ald. Maria Hadden (49th) pointed out that while Snelling supports ShotSpotter, he works for Mayor Brandon Johnson — who’s against renewing the contract. She voted with the mayor but also appealed to him.

“I hope that you can meet with some of my colleagues and talk to them about what’s going to be the stopgap solution,” Hadden said. “Should you consider, with this new offer, an extension while this other work is happening?”

ShotSpotter has offered a yearlong extension at half the current cost .

Ald. Samantha Nugent (39th), whose district includes Mayfair, North Park and Sauganash,implored the mayor not to let the contract lapse.

“I will always support a technology that supports our officers, that supports each other and supports our residents,” Nugent said. “The truth is, I don’t know what the best technology is, Mr. Mayor, but it’s the only technology we have right now.”

Johnson’s face was impassive throughout the debate.

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