Mount Prospect pledges support for immigrants, but skips ICE ban

Mount Prospect trustees unanimously approved a policy Tuesday committing to protect all residents regardless of immigration status, during an often contentious meeting that highlighted community divisions.

The policy urges people to call 911 if they feel unsafe or uncertain about anyone claiming to be a federal agent, and directs residents how to contact social workers, a food pantry, legal assistance and other services.

However, the measure stops short of banning immigration agents from operating on village property. Trustees said state and federal law prevents them from either interfering with or aiding federal agents.

Mayor Paul Hoefert and other board members said bans passed by other communities are unenforceable and create a false sense of safety.

“Other than saying that they passed a resolution or ordinance, is there anything in those policies that will actually deter federal agents?” Trustee Beth DiPrima said.

Trustee John Matuszak, a former federal agent and military attorney, warned against inserting the village into a national political fight it cannot resolve.

“Issuing a resolution ordinance about ICE is political theater. It's useless,” he said, adding that he does not condone the immigration agents’ tactics.

Some residents challenged the board’s approach. Carmen Melesio criticized trustees for not visiting the south side of the village, which has a large immigrant population.

“I feel like this board has been living under a rock. None of you have stopped by my side of town to ask how many people were detained illegally,” she said.

Trustee William Grossi disputed suggestions that the village board’s actions condone federal agents’ methods, calling those statements virtue signaling by people with a partisan agenda.

Others praised the board’s decision. Amber Tortorello thanked trustees for making responsible decisions and keeping citizens and police officers safe.

Trustee Terri Gens called for unity despite disagreements, saying, “We are more alike than we are unlike.”