Iowa City police reform effort is just a facade

In a recent op-ed, Iowa City Council member Susan Mims bashed fellow member Laura Bergus for suggesting that police abolition be included in discussions. By publishing that piece, Mims - who has repeatedly shown callous indifference to her constituents who have suffered at the hands of the Iowa City Police Department - outdid herself. She writes as if the core issues have been adequately addressed and that the police situation in Iowa City is now milk and honey.

It is not difficult to see through the facade of “reform” which Mims and other city officials boast about. City Manager Geoffrey Fruin’s plan to “restructure” the police department actually expands its power and inserts police deeper into the community. Fruin plans on having officers work with various non-profits and social service agencies, something which increases the likelihood of them arresting individuals who need support. Many residents will be less likely to seek out those services.

At the May 11 council meeting, Fruin himself sent armed police to confront peaceful demonstrators outside City Hall who were not breaking the law. It is clear he has no intention of changing the fundamental problems in the department.

People in Iowa City are still suffering, and the ignorance shown by officials like Mims and Fruin about these issues proves that the city is no closer to solving problems. They would be wise to listen to people like Laura Bergus, whose personal growth has led her to consider more effective solutions to the problems with police.

Dan Kauble

Iowa City