By Heart of Illinois ABC
BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington City Council voted 7-2 to back further consideration of the ‘Welcoming America’ ordinance, but it didn’t go without drama.
The two council members voting against the ordinance were Jennifer Carrillo and Jeff Crabill. Carrillo spoke with Heart of Illinois-ABC before the meeting and clarified that she is all for supporting a more welcoming city for undocumented people of all races, creeds, religions, etc., but she disagrees with the way it is being presented.
Carrillo clarified that a ‘Welcoming City’ ordinance is what she and others have been asking for. This legislation she is pursuing would protect undocumented immigrants from deportation or separation in the event they need help from the police by not allowing BPD to work directly with ICE.
During the meeting sparks flew during discussion when Carrillo was interrupted by council member Kim Bray.
“The thing that has been asked of us is to consider a welcoming city ordinance and not by a handful of people, but by a large group of people,” said Carrillo.
“Point of order I’m calling a point of order again, we aren’t here to speak about the welcoming city,” exclaimed Bray.
Mayor Tari Renner played mediator during the interchange.
Carrillo responded, “Councilmember Bray with all due respect, I let you talk when it was your time and I would appreciate if you would let me get through a sentence.”
“No ma’am, there are rules that we proceed under and we should follow our rules,” responded Bray.
The council majority directed staff to prepare a ‘Welcoming America’ ordinance for final action.
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