cover
TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Lt. Bill Rowley
DATE: March 30, 2023
SUBJECT:
Requesting an update to the language contained in Sec 36-26 of the Aurora Code of Ordinances from the rank of "Captain" to "Commander".
PURPOSE:
The current language in Sec 36-26 of the Aurora Code of Ordinances describes actions related to the promotion and demotion of police department personnel with regard to the rank of "Captain". This title is no longer in use and should be replaced with the word "Commander". This update will provide clarity and will align the language of the Aurora City Code with the current rank structure at the police department. Further, current language of the Ordinance provides guidance for police officers promoted "after January 1, 1990," This language is obsolete and should be removed.
BACKGROUND:
While conducting an administrative review of police policy and the Aurora Code of Ordinances, it was discovered that the change in title from "Captain" to "Commander" had not been made, and the leadership of the police department would like to see this language updated.
Further research revealed that prior to this change in wording, "Captain" was a position subject to the Civil Service process, and a decision was made by City leaders to alter this to the appointed position of "Commander". The language change from Captain to Commander was made at the same time as this change was made from a Civil Service position to an appointed one.
DISCUSSION:
An update to the language contained in Sec 36-26 will ensure continuity between the Code of Ordinances and current police management practices.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
No impact to the General Public, other departments, or other divisions is foreseen as a result of this change.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends that this ordinance be adopted.
cc: Rules, Administration & Procedures Committee
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
title
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 36, Sec. 36-26 of the Code of Ordinances Pertaining to the rank of Commander at the Police Department.
body
WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the Aurora Police Department no longer acknowledges the rank of Captain but rather has adopted the title of Commander in its stead;
WHEREAS, Aurora Code Section 36-26 currently identifies the rank of Captain in the Aurora Police Department, and it is desired that this title be amended to the rank of Commander;)
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows: that Chapter 36 of the Code of Ordinances shall be and hereby is amended as set forth in Exhibit A; and further
BE IT ORDAINED, that the Corporation Counsel and City Clerk shall be and hereby are authorized and directed to correct any scrivener's or other non-substantive errors in Exhibit A upon codification.