Mayor Brandon Johnson Announces Request for Information (RFI) to Gather Recommendations on First Responder Technology

Mayor Brandon Johnson announced a Request for Information (RFI) on September 22, 2024, to seek recommendations for enhancing first responder technology in Chicago. This initiative follows the city's decision to decommission its acoustic gunshot detection technology from SoundThinking, Inc. , aiming to ensure that emergency responders can react more swiftly and effectively in crisis situations. The RFI invites submissions from qualified vendors with a proven track record in developing reliable first responder response technology. Mayor Johnson highlighted the urgency of identifying effective tools to counteract the rising trend of violent crime and improve community safety.

The working group formed to address these concerns includes a diverse assembly of city employees, community leaders, and law enforcement professionals. Deputy Mayor Garien Gatewood noted that Chicago is not alone in reevaluating its technology, as cities like Seattle and Houston are also exploring alternatives. The working group aims to gather feedback from various stakeholders to assess tools that bolster both safety and community trust. Through this collaborative approach, the city hopes to implement strategies that prioritize community engagement and resource allocation for first responders.