CHICAGO — Mayor Brandon Johnson is expected to veto a controversial curfew ordinance recently passed by the City Council, a move sparking backlash from residents who fear it may fuel a wave of summer violence and so-called “teen takeovers” downtown.
The ordinance, narrowly passed in a 27–22 vote, would have expanded Chicago’s existing curfew policy in an effort to curb the recurring gatherings of large youth crowds that have led to shootings and disruptions in areas like Streeterville and Millennium Park.
Mayor’s Rejection Cites Criminalization Concerns
During a Wednesday press conference, Mayor Johnson criticized the ordinance, stating it promotes policies that lead to “criminalization and incarceration.”
“To move on a policy that we already know historically leads to criminalization and incarceration—why on God’s green earth would I actually repeat the sins of those who came before us?” Johnson said, reiterating his plan to veto the measure within days.
The mayor’s comments reflect his administration’s broader stance against enforcement-heavy approaches, drawing support from organizations like the ACLU, which called the measure unconstitutional and “egregiously vague” in its language.
According to Ed Yohnka of the ACLU, the ordinance would have almost certainly triggered legal challenges. “Almost every time we see one of these curfews put in place, we end up with lawsuits,” Yohnka said.
Streeterville Residents: “We’re Being Ignored”
But downtown residents say the veto will worsen a safety crisis that has already disrupted neighborhoods and driven fear among families, tourists, and business owners.
Deborah Gershbein, president of the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents, said her community has already endured two violent teen takeovers this year, both of which resulted in gunfire.
“Our concern is that we will relive history here,” Gershbein said. “Teens will now think they can come back and take over the street and terrorize the residents and visitors and workers of Streeterville.”
She added that the mayor appears out of touch with the lived experiences of her community. “He doesn’t understand. He needs to be in the midst of one of these teen takeovers to realize how dangerous they really are.”
Police: Politics Overshadowing Public Safety
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling weighed in with a carefully worded statement, emphasizing that the CPD will continue to enforce laws at large gatherings regardless of political developments.
“To be clear, we have always enforced the law at large gatherings and will continue to do so… Those who commit crimes or acts of violence will be arrested and held accountable.”
Snelling also remarked that the ordinance had become “more a matter of politics than public safety,” signaling the department’s frustration with the ongoing debate at City Hall.
Next Steps: Veto Battle Looms at City Council
The mayor’s veto could come as early as Friday. However, supporters of the curfew plan are already preparing for a showdown at next month’s City Council meeting, where they would need to flip at least seven votes to override the veto.
With rising tensions between City Hall and residents, the outcome could shape Chicago’s approach to managing youth activity and downtown safety for the remainder of the summer.
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