By Scott Harvey
Commerce – The city of Commerce is taking the necessary steps toward protecting it citizens. Those attending Tuesday night's city council meeting were properly screened by a Commerce Police Officer before entering the city's Council Chambers. The officer was also on hand during the meeting.
City Manager Bill Shipp said it was more a matter of precaution as opposed to necessity to screen citizens. Shipp cited the recent shooting at a Kirkwood, Missouri council meeting that resulted in six deaths including the gunman as one reason for the precaution.
It is still unsure if screening will be used on a consistent basis. Shipp said that would depend on the availability of city funds. Other public gatherings like Planning and Zoning Commission meetings could also benefit from the increase in security.