GENESEO — The City Council on Monday, Aug. 10, continued discussions on the use of Flock cameras, with Police Chief Dave Disterhoft reporting that the unit on Illinois 82 should be online soon as the department works with the Illinois Department of Transportation to complete installation.
Alderwoman Paula Simosky said she has received questions from residents concerned about privacy. The city’s legal counsel addressed those concerns, citing a case in Southern Illinois in which a Texas officer misrepresented the reason for requesting Illinois data, leading to a breach.
He told the council that Illinois privacy laws protect against the type of breach seen in that case. As a result of the incident, Illinois has cut off access to its Flock data for agencies in other states. Counsel noted, however, that other states may still attempt to access Illinois data unlawfully.
In other police department updates, new squad cars are still being upfitted before delivery. Interstate Fence is expected to begin its project at the police range, with completion targeted for the end of the month. The department also reported that K-9 Officer Kauzi has died.
The city has received both the insurance check and lost‑revenue check for turbine one, which will be addressed at upcoming council meetings. Turbine two has now failed after the generator windings shorted, and information has been sent to Vensys for analysis. Together, the two turbines typically generate about 11–12% of the city’s power. Officials said there is currently no indication that the loss of both turbines will lead to rate increases for residents.
Also discussed at the meeting:
Packets for the 2027 consolidated election will begin circulating Aug. 25. Filing will be open Nov. 16–23, with extended hours on Nov. 23.
Well 33 is awaiting approval from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. Bids for the sanitary sewer project on Ford Road will open Aug. 19. The State Street project has completed both phases one and two ahead of schedule.
The council also noted several community events. National Night Out was deemed a success. Trains, Planes and Automobiles will be held Sept. 10–12. Cruise the Canal is scheduled for Sept. 11 and Oct. 16. The State Street Market will take place Oct. 3.
Mayor Sean Johnson read an email from a resident praising city departments for their quick and efficient cleanup of a downed tree. He added that the city is urging Corn Crib to return and finish its contracted work.
