CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Urbana’s Alternative Response Task Force (ARTF) will host its first community focus group on Thursday, November 6, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Independent Media Center in Urbana. The meeting marks a key step in the city’s efforts to develop a community-based alternative to traditional public safety responses.

The session will be facilitated by the Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP), a national organization specializing in police-community relations and alternative response systems. LEAP will guide participants through examples and strategies for building a model that addresses community needs while easing the burden on law enforcement.

While the public is encouraged to attend, officials note that no public comment will be taken during the meeting due to time and space constraints. Residents can still share their thoughts and suggestions by email or in writing through the channels listed on recent City Council or Committee of the Whole agendas.

The discussion will be recorded and posted online once available. For more information, including background materials, public releases, and frequently asked questions, visit the Alternative Response Task Force webpage.