SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The City of Springfield is working with UIS researchers to create a policing partnership advisory board.
Researchers will take data from several round table meetings that were held with dozens of local organizations and nonprofits.
The data will be used to develop bylaws and an outline of priorities for the advisory board.
Those working on the project said police and community relations are broken and need to be repaired.
"We understood then and now that addressing the community relationship with the police, and vice versa, would be paramount to making Springfield a safer and more inviting place to live," said Gail Simpson.
City council approved an almost $55,000 contract with UIS Tuesday night to complete the research.
An amendment was added to require the advisory board to be made up of people who live in the highest-crime areas of the city.
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