BACKGROUND

The Police Department is proposing that the Village adopt a local ordinance specifically targeting gang activity.  Of particular concern with gang activity is the problem gang members cause by loitering. Street gangs and their associates are consistently loitering on the sidewalk, in parking lots, in front of stores, and inside retail businesses during the day and night. It is known that gang members loiter with the intent to claim territory, recruit new members, and intimidate rival gangs and community members. 

It is anticipated that adoption of the attached ordinance will serve as an efficient tool for addressing gang activity within the Village by giving the police the authority to prevent gang members from congregating in areas with intent to engage in gang-related activities. The City of Rolling Meadows and the Village of Mount Prospect both have ordinances prohibiting gang loitering.

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the Village Board adopt the attached Ordinance Amending Chapter 8 of the Arlington Heights Municipal Code.