By Paul TakahashiThe Daily Northwestern

Ald. Cheryl Wollin (1st) addressed safety concerns and community service opportunities in an informal speech at Wednesday’s Associated Student Government meeting.

“If senators have any concerns, it’s good to have a connection with the city and someone to talk to,” said Jonathan Webber, speaker of the Senate.

The alderman also spoke to ASG last spring, said the SESP junior.

Wollin stressed the importance of maintaining communication between NU and Evanston, especially during heated funding discussions.

“We’re in the midst of the budget process,” said Wollin. “There’s a lot of arguing, discussing and debating.”

Wollin’s topics ranged from traffic to relations between students and the Evanston Police Department.

Evanston is considering funding crosswalk timers that warn pedestrians of traffic light changes, Wollin said.

Wollin also mentioned a discussion with NU administrators about expanding off-campus “blue lights,” lighted poles with emergency phones linked directly to 911 services.

“There’s no disagreement about the placement of the blue lights or why they’re needed,” she said. “It’s just the financing – we’re working on it.”

Wollin also commended NU students who tutor Evanston youth.

“Your involvement is essential,” Wollin said. “We appreciate the enthusiasm and willingness of Northwestern students in contributing to our community.”

ASG lawyer Patty Marinakis spoke briefly at the meeting about the free legal services offered to undergraduate and graduate students.

“Students seem to be very happy with the services provided,” Marinakis said. “I hope to continue to help students.”

ASG president Jay Schumacher announced the conclusions of Tuesday night’s town hall meeting on dorm security. The Communication senior also announced the results of the University Budget Priorities Committee’s poll, which surveyed students about funding priorities.

ASG’s Executive Committee began Winter Quarter funding interviews with B-Status student groups this week. Thirty-six student groups requested a total of more than $126,000 in funding allocations. The committee has $19,514 to distribute.

This quarter will mark the first time B-status groups are eligible for funding from the Student Activities Fee, which all students pay with tuition.

“We’re looking forward to this,” said executive vice president Rishi Taparia, a Communication junior.

Reach Paul Takahashi at [email protected].