The Human Relations Commission passed a motion to formally suggest the City Council withdraw the proposed ordinances regarding unlawful assemblies from consideration.

The original ordinances describe what actions and characteristics define an unlawful assembly and listed 21 occurrences in which a 10-person or more assembly can become unlawful which included: assault, battery, criminal damage to property, unlawful use of alcohol, cannabis or a controlled substance and mob action. The ordinances were sent to the Human Relations Commission after more than 30 DeKalb citizens and NIU students attended a Jan. 25 City Council meeting to voice concerns.

Chief Diversity Officer Vernese Edghill-Walden said she believes the commission’s suggestions were necessary.

“[The process] allowed for us as a community to come together and develop something that we have had the ability to provide some feedback and some discussion on,” said Edghill-Walden at a Human Relations Commission meeting Tuesday which was attended by eight community members.

The motion to suggest a withdraw from consideration was due to numerous commissioner and community member concerns, including the ability of current city codes in addressing the issues in the proposed ordinances and an unnecessary focus on targeting students.

Commissioners also passed a motion that requires inclusion of an expression of gratitude toward community members and city officials, particularly the police, in the document.

The suggestion to withdraw consideration was supported by DeKalb Police Chief Gene Lowery, who was one of the original supporters of the ordinances.

“I think this motion is hearing what the community has felt, but also respects our city staff and [police] chief,” said Larry Apperson, Human Relations Commission chair.