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(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The mayor of west suburban Oak Park says the village is moving forward with police-reform efforts, but the controversy over proposals to “Defund the Police” is continuing, too.
Last week, the Oak Park Village Board—in a virtual meeting—voted down a defunding measure, even as proponents demonstrated and did some property damage at Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb’s house.
Abu-Taleb said Monday he understands the emotions, as someone whose family fled suppression on the Gaza Strip. He said police reforms are needed—but so are the police.
The village board plans an independent review of police policies.
That’s not likely to satisfy Trustee Arti Walker-Peddakotla, who presented the defunding proposal. She said community safety does not come from effectively using police as security guards to stop and question anyone who doesn't seem like they "belong."