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Arlington Heights directs staff to draft ordinance limiting civil immigration enforcement use of village property after lengthy public comment
Summary
Following hours of public testimony, the Arlington Heights Village Board unanimously directed staff to draft an ordinance that would prohibit civil immigration enforcement activity on village-owned public property (excluding streets and sidewalks); staff had recommended making an interim Nov. 6 policy permanent or drafting ordinance/resolution and will return a draft for consideration.
After extensive public comment and trustee debate on Nov. 17, the Arlington Heights Village Board voted unanimously to direct staff to draft an ordinance prohibiting civil immigration enforcement officials from using village-owned public property, facilities or resources to conduct civil enforcement operations.
Trustee Santa Maria made the motion, citing neighborhood incidents, children's exposure to armed agents near schools and a need to protect community trust. The motion was seconded and, after staff clarified scope and enforceability, the board agreed the intended draft should focus on "village-owned public property" while excluding traditional rights-of-way such as streets and sidewalks.
Village Manager Reklaus explained the legal and practical limits of local authority during the staff presentation:…
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