College officials preparing for grand jury’s decision — indictment or not

Local college officials have plans in place should protests follow the eventual decision a grand jury makes regarding an indictment of Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown.

Dan Kimack, a spokesman for St. Louis Community College, which has its Florissant Valley campus located in Ferguson, said school officials are "keenly aware of the potential impact on the region and our community once a decision of the grand jury is provided."

"The college has in place emergency preparedness plans and each campus police department works together with leadership to ensure a safe campus environment," he said. "The college's emergency plans have been reviewed by external experts in recent months and the college has modified portions of its preparedness plans in light of the ongoing situation in Ferguson."

Kimack said school officials have discussed and prioritized needs for additional security, possible closings of facilities and emergency communications with students, faculty and staff and local authorities or community organizations. There are about 7,400 students enrolled at Florissant Valley.

Bob Samples, associate vice chancellor for communications at the University of Missouri - St. Louis, which is located just south of Ferguson, said similar preparations have been made at UMSL. There are more than 16,600 students enrolled at UMSL.

"The university respects the right of peaceful and civil expression and supports that type of activity on our campus, but we have discussed options for appropriate responses if a threat to people or property becomes apparent," he said.

Samples did not say what those responses might be if civil action turns violent.

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