(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – A special City Council meeting about ballot referendums derailed Thursday into parliamentary maneuvers as aldermen argued about Chicago’s “Sanctuary City” status and whether it’s an issue that should be put to voters.
Ald. Anthony Beale, 9th, wants residents to have a say about whether Chicago continues to be a city that welcomes -- and pays to care for -- any and all who seek asylum here.
The South Side alderman expressed frustration that the city continues paying $30 million to $40 million a month to support migrants while other needs in the city go unmet.
“If you give me $30 [million] to $40 million a month, my ward will look like the North Side,” Beale said.
Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa, 35th, Mayor Johnson's floor leader, said critics of the Sanctuary City ordinance either don’t understand it or are trying to mislead people. He urged his colleagues not to participate in the meeting.
It came down to whether there were enough members in the chamber to legally conduct the meeting. Ald. Samantha Nugent, 39th, who presided, declared the meeting adjourned without a vote.
Ald. Ray Lopez, 15th, said it's been recessed until next Tuesday. Another battle is expected then.
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