By Howard Packowitz

A proposed welcoming city resolution to protect undocumented immigrants is again revealing tensions between some Bloomington aldermen and the mayor.

The issue came up long after ordinance supporters, many of whom fasted for 24 hours, went home.

Alderman Amelia Buragas inquired when a ‘welcoming’ resolution will be back on the council agenda.

Renner explained he’s been working with some aldermen on the issue, but doesn’t want the resolution voted down or passed by a narrow vote.

Alderman Kimberly Bray interrupted Renner, saying the mayor spoke too long on the topic and was attempting to strong arm the council with his agenda.

“I could certainly go on a lot longer about the benefits of a welcoming city ordinance,” said Renner.

“I was deliberately trying to avoid that. I was responding to a specific question, and how long someone has to speak is actually up to the presiding officer, according to Illinois law,” the mayor said.

Bray responded, “I think you’re being abusive at this juncture in order to put forward a platform that you personally embrace.”

“We understand you have an agenda, and you actually have a position in this matter that may differ from others, and that’s what democracy is about, and kind of taking a strong armed approach here to take over the comments at the end of the meeting, I don’t think really is in that spirit.”

“So, I ask you to conclude and let the meeting move forward,” said Bray.

Council members were open to further discussion, and Alderman Karen Schmidt suggested the city’s Human Relations Commission and the newly-created Public Safety and Community Relations Board become involved.

Schmidt said this is democracy in action, and democracy is messy.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]