Aldermen delay vote on parking permit for mobile ultrasound vehicle

By Jim Hagerty
Online Editor

Whether an Elgin-based mobile ultrasound unit should be given a new parking permit to occupy several spots was the main topic of discussion Monday at the April 18 meeting of the Rockford City Council.

The mobile unit, owned by pro-life organization TLC Pregnancy Services, was issued a six-month permit that expired April 4.

With dozens of pro-life supporters present, aldermen voted 8-4 to suspend the vote on the permit’s extension. The layover came as a shock to some, as TLC, which has been coming to Rockford since last year, was expected to be granted a new permit Monday.

However, after comments by Mayor Larry Morrissey (I), Ald. Karen Elyea (D-11) and Ald. Carl Wasco (D-4), the council moved to return the matter to the Traffic Commission May 11.

The commission will now mull whether nonprofit groups should be granted permits for designated parking within the city.

Last week, the Code and Regulation Committee voted to extend TLC’s permit for another six months.

When in Rockford, TLC parks its ultrasound unit near the Northern Illinois Women’s Center, 1400 Broadway. Officials offer free ultrasounds and counseling for mothers coming to the center for abortions.

The Rockford City Council meets in open session every Monday at 6 p.m. Meetings are in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, downtown.