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Village Board Approves Resolution Calling for Federal and State Legislative Action on Assault Weapons

Village Board Approves Resolution Calling for Federal and State Legislative Action on Assault Weapons

On September 14, the Village Board held a special Committee of the Whole meeting to hold a community listening session regarding guns and gun safety. At the meeting, the Village Attorney presented an overview of the Village’s extremely limited legislative authority related to guns, due to State law, noting that the Village has no ability to regulate assault weapons, nor guns of any type, given State of Illinois statute.  Public Safety Director Cary Lewandowski highlighted the current firearm safety programs that the Village offers to community members, and the ongoing training and planning that the department does to prepare for potential critical incidents, including work with School District 35. Village President Howard Roin outlined a draft resolution for the Board's consideration calling for federal and State legislative action on assault weapons, large capacity magazines and gun violence. . Following these presentations, the Board opened the floor for public comment - several community members shared their concerns regarding gun safety, the desire for an increase in education about gun safety and safe gun storage, and their support of the Board passing the proposed resolution. The Village Board unanimously supported the proposed resolution.
 
The Village Board formally approved the resolution (link to meeting video) calling for federal and State legislative action at the September 15 Village Board meeting. The Village’s resolution has been sent to our State and federal legislators, and can be viewed here.