By Gary Barlow

Staff writer

GLBT business and community leaders officially welcomed the 23rd District’s new police commander, Kathleen Boehmer, at a reception at Sidetrack April 30.

More than 100 people attended the event, including most owners and managers of Halsted’s GLBT business community in Lakeview.

Boehmer was among the new commanders appointed by CPD Supt. Jody Weis March 13 in a huge shake-up at CPD. Weis, who took over as police superintendent earlier this year, replaced 21 of the CPD’s 25 district commanders. Former 23rd District Cmdr. Gary Yamashiro was named commander of the detectives division at Area 3.

Boemer was previously in the 20th District, which includes heavily GLBT Andersonville. She said the move into command at the 23rd has gone well.

“I knew this was a great command but I’ve been amazed at how supportive people are here,” Boehmer said. “The people aren’t just waiting for us to solve their problems. They’re taking part.”

She also praised the work that Yamashiroya and others have done to create a good working atmosphere in the district.

“We’re looking forward to continuing the great relationship that’s already here,” Boehmer said.

She said violence and the issues faced by youths on Halsted are two concerns she’s hoping to make progress on.

“Our main priority is we want people to feel safe,” she said.

Sidetrack co-owner Art Johnston praised Boehmer at the reception.

“We have had great, good fortune to have a series of excellent commanders in the 23rd, and Kathleen Boehmer comes with outstanding recommendations,” Johnston said.