Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Criticism of Springfield aldermen has crossed the line into intimidation, say three women who serve on the city council.

“It’s been uncomfortable up here for the past several weeks, and someone said, ‘”Keisha, you’re always looking at the door now,’,” said Ald. Lakeisha Purchase. “You don’t feel safe in here. I want to ask about funding for us to have metal detectors and, if it’s too much, maybe to have a wand.”

“I got a great email about being watched through a high-powered lens,” said Ald. Erin Conley. “Maybe it’s a camera; I don’t know.

“I will be honest: I think social media is one of the most unsocial things we have going on in our society right now. People feel free to say some really vile, horrible things.”

Another alderwoman suggested some threats are coming from the inside. “For us to question an officer,” said Ald. Jennifer Notariano, “and then get threats against our safety because of it and get called racial slurs because of it is just uncalled for.”

Corporation counsel Greg Moredock said he would look into it.