(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – The continuing flow of migrants being sent here from Southern states threatens to overwhelm Chicago’s social services agencies, and alderpersons are expressing frustration.
Two City Council committees held virtual meetings Friday to address the challenges.
Third Ward Ald. Pat Dowell, chair of the city’s Budget Committee, on Friday told city administrators the situations facing migrants being bused or flown here is dangerous and inhumane.
“I have about 12 families at the First District police station at 18th and State. These families are with children, sitting on floors,” Dowell said.
Ald. Ariel Reboyras (30th) said the city is finding it increasingly difficult to properly house migrants sent to Chicago.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we are now down to zero money [with] no commitments, from what I understand. What do we do?”
Just this week, migrants were being temporarily sheltered at O'Hare Airport and inside at least one closed police station.
“We are aware that a new approach is necessary,” said Nubia Willman, the city’s chief engagement officer.
Friday’s hearing is the first of its kind since asylum-seekers started arriving on buses to Chicago last September. Governors in Southern states say the federal government is ignoring a crisis at the border.
Budget Director Susie Park said any city approach will need more help from the state and federal government. The city expects to spend more than $125 million to house and care for increasing numbers of migrants. So far, officials are expecting a $53 million shortfall.
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