Council members press for quicker action on River West lighting and security after weekend shooting; request meeting with PHA

Council members discussed public safety concerns in River West after a recent shooting and called for the city to press housing managers to address lighting and security in vulnerable areas.

Council Member Jackson thanked Police Chief Echevarria for the department’s response to the River West shooting and described follow‑up constituent reports of break‑in attempts in poorly lit areas. “I had a phone call last night from a woman whose daughter lived over there…she talked about some young people attempting to break into her car,” Jackson said, urging the city manager to engage the Peoria Housing Authority and property management companies about lighting and on‑site security.

Jackson said she and the city manager had discussed long‑standing lighting complaints and asked the mayor and staff to meet with the PHA and the director to seek solutions. Council Member Jackson suggested requiring security at properties that are vulnerable to repeated incidents.

The city manager confirmed that River West is under the aegis of the Peoria Housing Authority and acknowledged that improved lighting is not a panacea for violent crime. Council members referenced a recent fatal shooting in another district to emphasize the danger of residents confronting suspects and relayed the police chief’s repeated advice: if you hear suspicious activity, call the police rather than confronting suspects.

No formal motion or vote was recorded on the River West lighting issue; council members requested follow‑up discussions with the manager and PHA staff.