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Committee takes up 'not a sanctuary city' order; vote to table after divided discussion

5788578 · September 10, 2025

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Summary

Committee members debated an order declaring Holyoke “not a sanctuary city.” After divided votes on tabling and advancing the measure, the committee ultimately voted to table the order for future committee consideration; members said the topic requires broad discussion and participation.

Committee members debated an order asserting that “Holyoke is not a sanctuary city,” asking departments to comply with federal laws and to request removal of any federal designation. The item prompted extended discussion about procedure, public notice and whether the full City Council or committee was the appropriate venue for the matter.

Some councilors said the language is duplicative of a mayoral statement and existing ordinance language and supported moving the order to the full council quickly. Others said the issue is sufficiently consequential that it should be discussed in committee with makers of the order and invited stakeholders present; several councilors urged that the item receive broad notice and participation by the mayor, department heads, and affected community groups.

Attempts to table and to move the order to the full council produced split votes. After debate and several procedural motions, the committee voted to table the item for future committee consideration so that makers and interested parties can appear and the committee can schedule adequate time for a full discussion.