Barrington village board passes welcoming resolution

Barrington’s village board passed a resolution affirming the village is a welcoming community.

The board’s decision clarifies the village's compliance with Illinois' TRUST Act, Trustee Brian Prigge said. The state law prevents police agencies from assisting federal agents with immigration enforcement efforts.

“It is effectively synonymous with an ordinance, as the enforcement in the ordinance would not have any real teeth to it,” he said.

But residents who spoke at Monday’s board meeting spoke in favor of an ordinance along the lines of those passed by Wheeling, Evanston and Oak Park.

The resolution states the village does not support the use of any village-owned or operated properties or assets for immigration enforcement purposes.

It also declares its support and appreciation to people in the Barrington community who continue to work to foster safety and respect for all.

Prigge said a challenge to the TRUST Act is moving through the courts. He asked the board to reconsider its options in the event the act is upheld.

Several residents argued in favor of an ordinance citing liability issues for the village without one and the need to stand up for minorities living within the community.

One resident spoke against the resolution, complaining police should be empowered to assist federal agents to maintain the safety of the community.