UPDATE: The Village of Broadview’s Zoning Board of Appeals has just rejected a controversial proposal aimed at restricting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from expanding its property. The decision, made during a heated meeting on July 20, 2023, comes amid rising public concern over the implications of ICE’s presence in the community.
Residents gathered in droves at the village hall, expressing confusion and alarm over the proposal’s unclear language. Many voiced that the ordinance could inadvertently assist ICE in expanding its operations in Broadview, where the agency currently operates a detention center that has sparked significant protests due to heightened immigration enforcement.
The proposal, introduced by Broadview Building Commissioner and Economic Director David Upshaw, aimed to require special use permits for prisons and detention centers. It also sought to prohibit such facilities from being situated within 1,000 feet of residential zones, schools, daycares, cemeteries, parks, senior living facilities, and public housing. Additionally, it mandated secure fencing and specified parking requirements for these facilities.
Despite the ordinance’s restrictions, residents were concerned that it did not go far enough. Allisan Galvan, a resident from Addison who spoke at the meeting, stated, “Yes, the ordinance places restrictions. But nowhere in this document does it say [to] do the one thing that would truly protect Broadview: It does not prohibit private prisons or detention centers outright.” This sentiment echoed throughout the room, highlighting a fear that the proposal granted “permission with conditions” for ICE to continue its operations.
Further criticism came from local resident Janelle Miller, who condemned the village government’s lack of transparency. “I believe this is something that shouldn’t be voted on until we know what this is actually about,” she said. “The language isn’t clear. … We have to be part of the process and, at this point, I do not feel part of the process.”
The Zoning Board voted unanimously against the recommendation, but officials noted that the proposal could still be passed if the Village Board overrules the recommendation with a supermajority vote. As tensions rise in Broadview, residents are left to wonder what the future holds for ICE’s presence in their community.
NEXT STEPS: Community members are urged to stay informed as the Village Board prepares for its next meeting. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions and concerns to ensure that their voices are heard in the decision-making process regarding ICE operations in Broadview. As this story develops, the implications of the rejected proposal could have lasting effects on local immigration policies and community dynamics.
This situation remains urgent and evolving, with Broadview residents actively seeking clarity and a more transparent approach to policy-making that affects their neighborhood. Stay tuned for further updates as the public discourse continues.
