Phoenix Councilman Hernandez opposes SRO involvement in immigration enforcement initiatives

The Phoenix City Council meeting on June 4, 2025, focused on several critical issues, including emergency preparedness, police department capacity, and school safety initiatives.

One of the most significant discussions centered on the need for improved emergency preparedness in light of concerns regarding FEMA's response capabilities. A resident expressed worries about the federal agency's awareness of hurricane season and urged the council to prioritize emergency planning for Phoenix, the fifth largest city in the U.S. The council unanimously voted in favor of supporting Arizona Task Force 1, which assists during emergencies, highlighting the importance of local preparedness.

Another key topic was the Phoenix Police Department's stretched resources and budget overruns related to overtime. Councilman Hernandez emphasized the need to realign police duties rather than expand them, arguing against involving the department in state-level enforcement issues, particularly those related to immigration. He pointed out that such actions disproportionately affect marginalized communities and suggested that state agencies should handle these responsibilities instead.

The council also approved an agreement to fund School Resource Officers (SROs) in collaboration with various school districts. Vice Mayor O'Brien highlighted a bipartisan effort to allow retired police officers to serve as SROs without jeopardizing their pensions. This initiative aims to enhance school safety by providing consistent, full-time officers who can build relationships with students. Council members discussed the challenges of inconsistent staffing with School Safety Officers (SSOs) and the importance of having dedicated SROs in schools.

The meeting concluded with a roll call vote on the various items discussed, reflecting a commitment to addressing public safety and emergency preparedness in Phoenix. The council's actions indicate a proactive approach to enhancing community safety and readiness in the face of potential crises.