No Migrant Restrictions In Western Springs

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – Western Springs has no plan to restrict the ability of migrants to pass through town, the village president said Friday.

In the last couple of weeks, both Hinsdale and Clarendon Hills, among other suburbs, have enacted regulations for buses carrying migrants from the U.S.-Mexico border.

Since Chicago enacted such rules, Texas has been redirecting buses to the suburbs. Migrants have been taken to Metra train stations, where they are given one-way train tickets to go to Chicago.

In a public statement Friday, Village President Heidi Rudolph said the village has been monitoring the situation and working with other towns.

"Our focus is the health and safety of all people," she said. "It is also to treat people with dignity and respect. Should buses of migrants arrive in Western Springs we are prepared to support their efforts to safely and efficiently board Chicago-bound trains."

During a Hinsdale Village Board meeting this week, residents said they feared the migrants would spread illnesses and pose a danger to children.

Rudolph said local volunteers, churches and shelters stand ready to offer support and assistance.