CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Champaign could be adding a new ordinance so the city can get a hold of residents more easily in case of a crisis.

The objective is to enhance communication and equip first responders and officials with current contact details. One reason for this initiative is highlighted by the Champaign Neighborhood Services Department Code Compliance Manager, who pointed out the difficulty in reaching property owners. This issue poses a challenge when managing emergencies and addressing code compliance issues.

“We are dependent on taxpayer record information for determining ownership, which provides us with the owner’s name and their mailing address,” said Tim Spear from the Neighborhood Services Department. “This information could be a PO box, or located somewhere far like New York City or California. In cases of emergency, mail as a form of communication would be far from effective for immediate contact.”

Spear said the new process would let them have a direct phone number and email address to get in touch with people quicker.

Currently, no decisions have been finalized as the Neighborhood Services Department is gauging the City Council’s interest. Should this initiative be approved, the goal is to establish the contact list by 2026. Champaign residents who fail to register by 2027 might face penalties.