Summary
Highlights
Representatives Lemon and Canales introduce discussion and action to direct the city manager and attorney to develop a plan of action to prevent ICE detention facilities in El Paso and collaborate with the county and El Paso Water. Representative Lemon emphasizes the importance of community voice and quotes Joanne Bernal on the city's power to oppose such facilities politically, morally, and legally.
Representative Rocha expresses concern about including El Paso Water, suggesting it might require proper steps with the PSB due to legal limitations on denying water service. Renee Leon from El Paso Water confirms they can advise but requests to be removed from any item that implies active support, citing state and federal laws preventing denial of service, even for land sales that could be acquired through eminent domain by the federal government.
Representative Rocha proposes an amendment to remove 'and El Paso Water' from the motion. Representative Canales clarifies that 'support' meant providing information and guidance, not active endorsement. The amendment passes with a 4-3 vote.
Representative Canales details concerns about ICE's actions, including deaths in detention and raids, expressing fear of increased ICE presence in El Paso. He clarifies that the motion is not to violate the supremacy clause but to explore the city's unique authorities (zoning, building safety, permitting) to resist ICE facility expansion. He emphasizes the practical and economic reasons to oppose ICE, calling for cooperation with county and neighboring municipalities, and urging the council to support the proposal to protect El Paso's residents.
Representative Asabto highlights the severity of recent ICE actions, including deaths of US citizens, and proposes an amendment. The amendment directs the city manager and attorney to research and report within 60 days on: 1) creating a protocol to prevent federal law enforcement from entering city facilities without a judicial warrant, 2) exploring a moratorium on permitting, zoning, and licensing for ICE facilities, and 3) detailing all points of cooperation between the city and ICE. The amendment passes unanimously.
Representatives Chavez, Nino, and Rocha express gratitude to the public and reiterate their commitment to protecting the community. Chavez emphasizes public trust and safety, while Nino highlights the community's desire to avoid detention centers. Rocha acknowledges the fear within immigrant communities but also the fear of ICE officers and their families, stressing the importance of compassion and legal clarity. Mayor Johnson praises El Paso's compassionate nature and commitment to dignity.
Various community members provide public comment, sharing stories and emphasizing concerns regarding human rights violations, economic detriment, lack of accountability, and the city's reputation. Speakers urge the council to oppose ICE expansion and explore legal avenues to limit ICE's presence, highlighting the humanitarian crisis and local impact of detention facilities.
After concluding public comment, Representative Lemon delivers a powerful closing statement, reflecting on the community's engagement and the need for the city to control its narrative, remain vigilant, and protect all residents. The main motion, including both amendments, passes unanimously, directing the city manager and attorney to take action against ICE detention facilities.