Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Immigration Local Policies topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Resident urges county to adopt immigrant-friendly local practices to protect workforce
Summary
Resident Helen Furr told the Board of Commissioners on July 4 that migrant workers form an essential part of Dare County’s workforce and urged county officials to adopt practices that protect those workers’ access to services and safety.
During the public-comment period on July 4, resident Helen Furr urged the Dare County Board of Commissioners to take concrete steps to protect migrant workers who supply essential labor in agriculture, fisheries, construction and hospitality.
Furr, a Dare County resident since 1998, said migrants harvest food, maintain boats, staff restaurants and perform construction work that supports the local economy. She told commissioners she has observed increased fear among immigrant workers related to federal immigration enforcement and recent federal budget-driven enforcement practices in surrounding counties, and she warned that fear can reduce workers’ willingness to travel to jobs, attend church or bring children to school.
Furr asked the board to consider several county-level actions: issue a public statement recognizing the vital role migrant workers play in the local economy; direct county departments not to ask about immigration status when delivering services unless legally required; support the distribution of “know your rights” materials in Spanish and English; and encourage local law enforcement to focus on community safety rather than federal immigration enforcement.
Furr said she and other residents want Dare County to continue its reputation for hospitality and neighborliness. The comments were delivered in the public-comment portion of the meeting; the board took no immediate action on these requests during the session.
Why it matters: Migrant workers fill key labor needs across several economic sectors in Dare County. Policy changes at the county level regarding interactions between county departments and immigration enforcement can affect workforce stability and access to services.
What’s next: Furr asked the board to consider a public statement and operational instructions for county departments. Commissioners did not vote on any of the requested items during the meeting; staff may refer the requests to appropriate departments for review.
