St. Charles Focuses On Providing Resources For Immigrant Families

ST. CHARLES, IL — Ongoing federal immigration enforcement has left some St. Charles residents afraid to run errands, send their children to school or seek help in emergencies, city officials said.

In response, the city has focused on actions within its authority, including reaffirming constitutional rights, providing reliable information and ensuring residents can safely access city services regardless of immigration status.

On January 20, St. Charles Mayor Clint Hull read a proclamation signed by the city council reaffirming the city’s support for the constitutional rights of all people, regardless of citizenship status.

The proclamation recognizes St. Charles as a community shaped by generations of immigrants and strengthened by residents from diverse backgrounds. It also affirms the city’s commitment to ensuring that all residents feel safe, supported and valued.

City officials said they continue to receive questions from residents about federal immigration enforcement activity in St. Charles, describing the issue as one that's had a significant impact on the community.

“We’ve heard the stories of people being afraid to go to the grocery store or drop their children off at school,” Hull said. “It’s heartbreaking. When someone is hurting in St. Charles, we all hurt. While local ordinances do not affect federal immigration operations, we do have a responsibility to support our residents, provide accurate information and ensure everyone feels safe accessing essential services.”

After discussion, the city council chose not to adopt an ordinance related to federal immigration enforcement, noting that such measures would not be enforceable by local police or affect federal operations. Instead, the city is focusing on actions within the city’s authority, including providing accurate information, reaffirming adherence to existing laws such as the Illinois TRUST Act, supporting community resources, and ensuring that all residents feel safe accessing City services, according to a news release from the city.

“We want to assure everyone that 911 services are available to all,” St. Charles police chief Daniel Likens said. “No one will be denied emergency services based on immigration status, and no witness, victim or person reporting a crime will be questioned about their immigration status.”

Other actions the city is taking:

• Continue Community Conversations: The city remains committed to ongoing dialogue with residents and community groups to listen to concerns, questions, and ideas; promote understanding; and build trust. Contact information for the mayor and alderpersons.
• Make Information and Resources Accessible: The city website includes information in multiple languages, including:
  • Information about individual rights
  • TRUST Act informational cards
  • Hot line and links to community and legal resources
• Listen to Community Feedback at Public Meetings: Designated comment periods at public meetings provide an opportunity for residents to speak directly to city council. Most recently, public comments were heard on the federal immigration enforcement issue, and presentations were delivered by Mayor Clint Hull, St. Charles Police Chief Dan Likens, and Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser at the Jan. 20 city council Meeting. The meeting is available on the city’s YouTube channel (presentations start at 27:18).
• Support Community Organizations The city continues to recognize and support local nonprofits, schools, community organizations and faith community efforts, including food drives, coat drives, and outreach to residents and families.
• Confirming the St. Charles Police Department’s Commitment to the Community
  • The police department will continue to serve all residents equally.
  • Police officers fully comply with the Illinois TRUST Act, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
  • School Resource Officers continue building relationships in schools

City officials said it will continue encouraging open dialogue and meeting with residents and community groups as it works to strengthen trust and understanding throughout the community.

The full proclamation can be found here.