Rockford Going Alone on ‘Chronic Nuisances’ Updated X1

March 6th, 2008 at 03:02pm Aaron Chambers

Rockford may abandon its push for legislation to give it additional power to crack down on “chronic nuisances.”

A House committee on Wednesday voted 9-0 in favor of the bill sought by Rockford after Rep. Chuck Jefferson, D-Rockford, presented it. The bill would add the following language to state law:

Chronic nuisance ordinances. The corporate authorities of any municipality may, by ordinance, regulate chronic nuisance offenses within the municipality. The term “chronic nuisance offenses” includes, but is not limited to, illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor, mob action, repeat violations of municipal building codes or sanitation codes, noise, and disorderly conduct. The ordinance may provide increased penalties for repeated violations.

But city Legal Director Patrick Hayes told me today, during a visit to the Capitol, that the city put the plan on hold. He said the city plans to focus on the authority it has under existing law.

Committee members on Wednesday approved the bill with a unanimous vote, sending to the House floor for consideration, after two members said they were confused by the bill’s language.

One member wanted to know why the definition of “chronic nuisance” included mob action. Another wanted to know why it included drinking by minors.

Jefferson told the committee he didn’t know the answer to either question. He said he believed the city wanted the bill so it could more closely regulate vehicles blasting loud music. He said after the hearing that Hayes drafted the bill and that he’d have to get back with Hayes for answers.

UPDATE 1

Our coverage today includes more comment from Hayes.

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