A pledge adopted by Orland Park elected officials promises more civil discourse among themselves and in working with residents, but the pledge raised concerns about possible curbs on free speech.

The civility pledge Village Board members approved Monday outlines a code of ethics or conduct to follow in discussing village matters and other official business with each other and with the public.

Trustee Cynthia Katsenes said she was concerned the pledge might unintentionally hamstring elected officials in what they talk about and how they discuss it.

Katsenes said she supports unfettered communication among elected officials and taxpayers “honestly and directly even it’s uncomfortable.”

She said that having the board adopt the pledge “assumes a problem exists that I really don’t think it

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