Board approves ordinance requiring permits for law enforcement staging in Milwaukee County parks

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Board adopted a new measure Thursday afternoon, aimed at regulating how immigration officers could operate in the county.

The board voted to approve a new ordinance requiring law enforcement agencies to get a permit before using any Milwaukee County parks as a staging area. 

While it applies to all police agencies, supervisors made clear in their remarks they believe it's a necessary precaution in case ICE or any other federal immigration officers are sent to Milwaukee in large numbers. 

"We have seen federal agents absolutely out of control, with no regard to the law or basic human decency," Sup. Steven Shea said. 

"I equate this moment to preparedness, to developing plans when we know there's something coming," said Sup. Caroline Gomez-Tom. 

Under the ordinance, not getting a permit would lead to a ticket for unauthorized use of a county park. That comes with a fine of up to $5,000.