Residents press Norwalk leaders for stronger response as immigration enforcement actions continue

Multiple residents urged the City of Norwalk during public comment to take stronger, immediate steps to protect residents after a series of immigration enforcement incidents in the region.

Speakers described recent detentions and impersonation episodes in Los Angeles County and neighboring areas and asked the city to expand legal assistance, rapid response and emergency food delivery for families who say they fear leaving home. Several speakers said they or neighbors had witnessed vehicles associated with enforcement activity near local businesses and requested direct city action to prevent staging of federal operations on city property.

City Manager Alan Gomez addressed the council earlier in the meeting, saying the city was ‘‘closely following’’ the recent enforcement activity and describing available social‑services resources. Gomez said the city has increased funding for a longstanding free legal‑aid program that helps with immigration and housing matters, provides ‘‘know your rights’’ information and operates a free food pantry. He told…