Streaming LIVE: Aurora Rules, Administration and Procedures Meeting | 09-01-2026

The City of Aurora, IL Rules Administration and Procedures Committee met on September 1, 2026, to discuss several agenda items including appointments to advisory boards and, notably, residency requirements for department heads, specifically police and fire chiefs. The committee reviewed and reaffirmed a previously approved ordinance requiring these chiefs to reside within 15 miles of city hall, emphasizing the importance of response times and community presence. A robust discussion ensued regarding the balance between residency requirements and attracting qualified candidates, with considerations for economic retention and public trust. The committee also debated amendments to residency rules for other department heads, proposing a preference for Aurora residents or those living within 15 miles who have worked for the city for at least two years. The committee voted unanimously to send the police and fire residency ordinance back to city council as is and decided to hold further discussion on the broader department head residency requirements for a future meeting. Legal counsel was tasked with drafting amendment language for review.