Heated public comment greets proposal to declare Lewis County non‑sanctuary; motion dies for lack of second

Commissioner Sean Swope introduced a draft resolution, numbered 25‑158, that would declare Lewis County a non‑sanctuary county and direct local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The item drew sustained public comment — including declarations both for and against the measure — and a motion to approve the resolution ultimately failed for lack of a second.

Why it matters: The resolution touched on public‑safety, legal and civil‑rights concerns, and prompted residents and county stakeholders to testify about potential effects on trust in law enforcement, liability exposure, and community cohesion.

During the public‑comment period, speakers presented sharply contrasting views. Dr. Usha Sahadeva Brooks asked commissioners directly for evidence linking the proposal to economic or public‑safety benefits: “How exactly will this draft policy help Lewis County economy, public safety, or long term development?” she asked. Several residents warned the policy could increase racial profiling and tear families apart; Tracy Lynn, introducing herself as a Lewis County resident, said the county would “be isolating ourselves, both legally and morally.”

Opponents cited legal and fiscal risks. Anna Torres, a local business owner, noted state law limits local cooperation on civil immigration matters and warned that similar policies have led to costly lawsuits elsewhere: “Passing this resolution invites the same risk to Lewis County,” she said, referencing RCW 10.93.160 and related case law discussed during testimony. Others described fear among children and families: Barb Mueller related a colleague’s children who asked whether officers in line at a food truck would arrest their mother, and said the incident illustrated how enforcement actions have “cast fear” into everyday life.

Supporters framed the resolution as an enforcement and safety measure. David de la Vega, who said he lives in Onalaska, told the commissioners, “I support resolution number 25‑158 to declare Lewis County a non sanctuary county and affirm the rule of law.” Ethan Brunton of Chehalis similarly said the measure was about “making sure law enforcement has the tools and support to do their jobs.” Vanessa Kopietz of Winlock also voiced support, saying her family’s immigrants had followed legal channels and that the county should back enforcement.

County staff and other officials did not present new data during the public remarks. Several speakers on both sides urged commissioners to consider Washington state law — some commenters named the Keep Washington Working Act and RCW 10.93.160 — and to weigh potential litigation and trust‑building effects.

After public comment ended, a commissioner moved to approve resolution 25‑158. The motion was made on the record but received no second. The chair announced the motion “dies for lack of a… I think this is best to carry on with a full commission,” leaving the resolution without action at the June 10 meeting.

What’s next: Commissioner Brummer, who participated remotely and asked that a statement be read on his behalf, said he could support either immediate action or tabling the measure until the full board could decide; he asked to be included in any final decision. No specific date was set to revisit the resolution.

Context: The proposal arrived amid national debate over federal immigration enforcement priorities and local cooperation. Commenters on both sides invoked broader themes — public safety, due process, economic contribution of immigrants, and civil‑rights protections — and referenced state statutes and prior litigation as part of their arguments.

The meeting continued with other agenda items following the unresolved outcome on resolution 25‑158.