Orland Park approves intergovernmental use of police training range; monthly safety report highlights traffic enforcement

Orland Park trustees approved an intergovernmental agreement with the village of Manhattan that allows Manhattan to use Orland Park's police training facility, range and emergency operations room. Trustee Lawler moved the item and the board approved it by roll call.

Mayor and trustees described the arrangement as a neighborly use of village training resources that can also generate revenue. "I was determined to make sure that we had other police departments using that facility because I think it's... a good neighborly thing to do for fellow police departments and also bring some additional revenue," one speaker said during the motion discussion.

The board also received the monthly public safety report (video) summarizing June activity: officers and detectives made 223 arrests across property, traffic and crimes against persons categories; police conducted more than 2,200 traffic stops, and participated in a multi‑agency enforcement along LaGrange Road with an additional 446 stops for speeding, cell‑phone and seat belt enforcement. Sergeant Rich Whalen introduced himself as the incoming public information sergeant and highlighted community events, including a Special Olympics Torch Run and a charity lemonade stand by a young resident.

The department warned about increased youth access to nitrous oxide (whipped‑cream chargers and flavored cylinders) and encouraged awareness of the public‑safety risks associated with misuse.

The training agreement and the public safety report were approved or accepted as presented; trustees had brief follow‑up questions regarding noise enforcement and ticketing.