Residents urge DeKalb City Council to prioritize bus stop safety over police patrols

During the City Council meeting on January 27, 2025, residents of DeKalb voiced significant concerns regarding public safety and transit security, leading to a lively discussion on the allocation of federal funds for police presence on city buses.

Janet Shearer, a local resident, highlighted the urgent need for stop signs on Larson Street, citing safety risks for young drivers in her family. She emphasized that the absence of stop signs and yield signs at critical intersections poses a danger to pedestrians and drivers alike. The council acknowledged her concerns and committed to following up with the city engineer to assess the situation further.

The meeting also featured multiple speakers addressing the city’s plan to allocate $50,000 in federal funds for police patrols on public transit. Alicia Iverson initiated the discussion, arguing that the funds would be better spent on enhancing security measures at bus stops, such as improved lighting and emergency telephones, rather than on police presence, which she believes could intimidate riders. Other residents echoed her sentiments, expressing concerns that the police presence might create a perception of danger where none exists.

Chris Falco and Cody Cahill reinforced the call for alternative uses of the funds, suggesting that investing in transit services and infrastructure improvements would better serve the community's needs. They pointed out that the current transit system has significant flaws, including inadequate lighting and lack of amenities at bus stops, which could pose safety risks for riders, especially during late hours.

The council members expressed appreciation for the community's input and indicated that they would consider these perspectives as they deliberate on the best use of the federal funds. The discussion underscored a growing community desire for proactive measures that prioritize safety and accessibility in public transit, rather than reactive policing strategies.

As the council prepares to address these issues, residents remain hopeful that their voices will lead to meaningful changes that enhance the safety and usability of DeKalb's public transportation system.