(migrant situation)
To get information, I have called many officials in the Chicago area – both counties and suburbs. They describe large white buses arriving – unscheduled – at suburban commuter stations. Migrants quickly board trains with the goal to reach the “landing zone” in downtown Chicago, where they receive “benefits.” They confirm that more than half of the migrants appear to be men of military age.
Most Chicago suburbs have recently called special meetings to pass ordinances against un-scheduled bus stops.
On Jan. 5, I joined county board members Paul Nicolussi (R-Collinsville) and Mike Turner (R-Godfrey) recommending that the county pass a resolution.
This morning I spoke with McLean County board member Chuck Erickson. I agree with his resolution, which which his board defeated 13 to 7 last week. It essentially said: “We’re not anti-immigrant, but we are pro rule of law. We don’t have the resources, and we don’t want to raise taxes for migrants.”
Counties and local government have never been in this situation. The Biden administration has left the southern border essentially open. This is unprecedented, and unsustainable.
I appreciate Rep. Miller’s phone call. It’s a difficult issue, and local government is being forced to address it.
Kurt Prenzler
Madison County Board Chairman