Wheeling board passes resolution barring village lots, garages for federal immigration enforcement; community speakers urge more action

The Wheeling Village Board voted Nov. 3 to prohibit use of village parking lots, vacant lots and garages for federal civil immigration enforcement staging areas, processing locations or operational bases, a resolution the board said takes effect immediately.

Mayor and board chair President Horcher introduced the item and attorneys explained the practical limits of a local resolution. Village attorney Jim Ferullo said the measure provides for signage at the specified village locations and “takes effect immediately upon passage,” but stressed the board cannot create a zone that nullifies federal authority. “The village cannot create zones exempt from federal law enforcement,” Ferullo said, adding the resolution does not apply to private property and does not interfere with lawful warrants or criminal…