The Butler County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on September 2, 2025, where several significant topics were discussed, particularly concerning the county's budget process and the ongoing contract with ICE for housing detainees at the Butler County Jail.

The meeting began with a resident expressing their intention to attend upcoming budget commission meetings, highlighting that the county budget is accessible to the public through the auditor's website and the Ohio checkbook. This resident also acknowledged a statement made by Commission President Don Vixen regarding Sheriff Jones's authority as the highest-ranking law enforcement officer in the county, emphasizing the sheriff's elected status.

The discussion then shifted to the controversial ICE contract. A speaker, Linda Spear Spurrier, voiced her opposition to the sheriff's housing of ICE detainees, arguing that many of those detained are not criminals but rather individuals contributing positively to the community. She shared personal anecdotes about individuals she has known who have faced unjust profiling and emphasized the need for Butler County to end its contract with ICE.

James Closterman, a military veteran and former city council member, also addressed the board, urging them to respond to the concerns raised by constituents regarding the ICE contract. He stressed the importance of acknowledging public input and providing feedback in future meetings.

In response to the public comments, a commissioner reiterated that the ICE operation would continue regardless of the county's contract status and noted that Butler County has not declared itself a sanctuary city. Another commissioner mentioned that they have been taking note of the questions raised by the public and have been attempting to address them.

The meeting concluded without any formal resolutions on the discussed topics, but the ongoing concerns regarding the ICE contract and the need for transparency in the budget process were clearly highlighted. The board's next steps remain to be seen as they continue to navigate these pressing issues within the community.