Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The commission that was formed in response to the murder of Sonya Massey in July will hold its first listening session this month. The goal of the session, according to a press release issued Tuesday by Sangamon County, is to understand the public’s hopes and concerns before finalizing its formal mission and goals.

Speakers will be given an opportunity to talk for up to three minutes. The listening session at Union Baptist Church at 1405 E. Monroe St. will be held Monday, Sept. 16 beginning at 6 p.m.

The listening session will occur before the full slate of commissioners are named and official commission hearings begin. The three commission co-chairs are currently reviewing applications that were submitted by local residents interested in serving on the commission. Approximately 200 applications were received. The full 12-member commission and public hearing dates will be announced later this month.

Massey Commission to address policing, mental health and community relations