Arlington Heights fundraising for officers’ union, not police force

Arlington Heights officials want to clarify that recent fundraising efforts by the labor union that represents many suburban police officers, including Arlington Heights officers, is not connected to the village’s police department.

The Metropolitan Alliance of Police has been calling residents and businesses in the community to help offset union dues, which go to help with officers’ legal defense costs, contract negotiations and funeral costs if need be.

Village officials said that a number of businesses and residents have contacted the village because of confusion as to where the money is going.

“The reason it’s an issue in Arlington Heights is this is the first time we have done it in Arlington Heights,” said Rick Tracy, executive board member of the union. “Arlington Heights is relatively new to our union.”

Tracy said the union contracts a fundraiser who is instructed to make the distinction.

“They make it clear that it is not the police department, it’s the union,” he said.