Discussion turned heated during Tuesday’s Springfield City Council meeting as Police Chief Joe Behl explained that he has not met with Faith Coalition for the Common Good as long as an organizer of a protest last year at City Hall is involved.
Tiara Standage was taken into custody during the protest last September, and Behl said he was concerned about her “anti-police” messaging.
Ward 6 Alderwoman Jennifer Notariano said the chief was not encouraging trust by excluding Sandage. Mayor Misty Buscher responded that “trust is a two-way street,” which sparked heated comments from citizens as at least two people were escorted from the chambers. Behl said he is willing to revisit his decision.
