Change In Venue For Community Forum On Police, Citizen Relations

FLOSSMOOR, IL — There has been a change in location for the upcoming Flossmoor community forum set for Oct. 29.

Originally set to take place at Homewood-Flossmoor High School, the event will now be held at Parker Junior High School, 2810 School St. The Village did not give a reason for the change in venue.

The forum is in response to residents' ongoing requests that officials address police-citizen relations following the death of Madeline Miller, who was fatally shot by police on July 10. Residents and activists have attended multiple Village Board meetings urging officials to address the public's concerns about the shooting of Miller, police conduct, and relations between officers and the public.

Village officials, including Mayor Nelson, Flossmoor Board of Trustees, Flossmoor police leadership and other local leaders will all be participating in the open discussion, which will be facilitated by independent experts on community relations, inclusion and equity, the Village said in a release.

The forum is scheduled for Saturday, October 29, from 2 to 5 p.m. The Village is asking attendees to pre-register at www.flossmoor.org. The required pre-registration is necessary in order for event facilitators to plan appropriately and gain a better sense of the number of attendees to expect. The registration will also help facilitators organize individuals into small break-out groups where they can share their experiences and ideas with one another.

The Village said previously it hopes that the forum gives everyone in attendance an opportunity to air their concerns, ask questions and brainstorm on ways in which the police and community can work more closely together, especially in times of crisis.

“When it comes to strengthening the bonds between the police and the community we serve, the work is never really finished. Rather, the dialogue should be frequent, ongoing, respectful and candid,” said Flossmoor Police Chief Tod Kamleiter.

“It is our hope that the community forum represents a step in that direction and illustrates our commitment to listening to our residents, our police officers and everyone who has a stake in a vibrant and safe community,” added Flossmoor Mayor Michelle Nelson.