Dupage Policy Journal

DuPage Judge Bonnie Wheaton wouldn't restrain Gov. J.B. Pritzker's emergency executive orders from Naperville Park District, because she believes the district would win the case, according to the Daily Herald. 

Wheaton told the Daily Herald Pritzker doesn't have the authority to issue emergency orders for the district because it would make his powers "meaningless." If the executive order did apply to the district, then it would mean other districts could determine if the executive order applies to them as well. 

Naperville Park District Attorney Derek Price told the Daily Herald the executive orders can help residents with health and welfare. Assistant Attorney General Maggie Jones, Pritzker's attorney, said the orders wouldn't keep any district from creating programs. It also wouldn't keep them from maintaining properties. In addition, Jones said the executive order does allow outdoor activities. These include hiking and biking, according to the Daily Herald. 

Under the executive order, fishing, tennis, golfing and camping are now allowed. Jones also said boating, personal training, youth camps and exercise classes are permitted as well. 

Price told the Daily Herald there are programs in place for senior citizens at the Fort Hill Activity Center, including a walking track and other activities. Pritzker's executive order will interfere with these activities by affecting the population. Senior citizens are vulnerable to COVID-19, more so than other populations, Price told the Daily Herald. The executive order would decrease their changes to build strength and health. 

"We stand ready to provide our resources to promote the health, safety and welfare of the public, and the governor says 'no,'" Price told the Daily Herald.

But Wheaton didn't make a decision on the injunction against Pritzker and there hasn't been another court date set.