June 5th Code Red Message 

Dear Residents,
Good Afternoon, this is Mayor Terry Weppler.  I am as appalled as many people across the country by what happened to George Floyd and offer my prayers and condolences to his family.  The actions of those officers were terrible, and we should all be embarrassed that this action occurred in our country.
 
As a retired police officer I can assure you that the vast majority of police officers are professional caring people.  Police officers in Libertyville, are held up to and live up to the highest standards of officers.  All our officers receive de-escalation training along with much more extensive training.  All arrestees are treated humanely as should be expected.  The actions of the rogue officers in Minnesota do not represent the actions or beliefs of the Village Board, our residents, or the members of our police department.
 
A Village employee was asked to take down signs on public property in the business district today.  I learned that he also went to one business and asked them to take down a sign in their window.  This was a mistake by the employee and I apologize and take full responsibility for his actions.  He misunderstood the direction he was given.
 
A group of residents have requested permission to gather in Cook Park on Saturday, June 6^th from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Many Libertyville Pastors and Ministers have also indicated that they would like to have a gathering in Cook Park on Sunday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  These are local residents who feel compelled to express their feelings in a peaceful manner about what happened in Minnesota.  I was asked to approve these events.  While we are not offering our approval as gatherings of more than 10 people are in violation of the Governor’s COVID order, I did tell those involved that we will not take any action to prevent these peaceful gatherings.  I do have a concern over an increase in COVID due to these gatherings which could force our businesses to shut down again or delay the next phase of openings.  If you attend one of these events, please wear a mask and socially distance.
 
We will update you should anything occur in the community that residents should be aware of but at this time nothing out of the ordinary has occurred in Libertyville.  We do ask that should you see anything unusual you report it to the police.  We are happy to investigate any issues or concerns.  We want all our residents to feel safe in the community.
 
As our businesses begin to reopen please know that we are here to provide safe law enforcement protection for our residents.  Despite what has gone on during the past week the COVID virus is still here so please remember to wear masks and social distance when out in public.  Stay Safe and Stay Healthy.  Thank you.