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Residents urge clarity on ICE operations; city manager says Richardson police won’t enforce federal immigration laws
Summary
Residents urged Richardson city officials to clarify local policies and provide outreach after reports of federal immigration enforcement, while City Manager Don Magner said Richardson Police "does not have federal authority to enforce the immigration laws of the United States, and it is not seeking that authority."
Several residents addressed the City Council during the meeting’s public comment period to raise concerns about recent federal immigration enforcement actions and the effect those actions are having on local communities.
Jenny Laughlin, speaking on behalf of Richardson Area Democrats, said news of federal enforcement has led to real fear in immigrant communities, including children missing school and people avoiding public services. "We can extrapolate from there that our immigrant neighbors may not feel safe to call the police if they're victims of crimes or seek medical care if they need it," Laughlin said. She asked the city for clarity about local policies and for outreach to affected communities.
Meadow Pena, who said she works in local elementary schools, urged city officials to reaffirm that "all members of our community, regardless of immigration status, are treated with dignity and respect," and asked the city to arrange multilingual sessions on legal rights and emergency planning in partnership with legal-aid groups.
City Manager Don Magner responded during the meeting’s staff remarks to say the council has set a clear direction to treat all people with "respect, dignity and compassion" and to keep the community safe. Magner specifically said Richardson Police Department (RPD) "does not have federal authority to enforce the immigration laws of the United States, and it is not seeking that authority." He added that RPD will remain focused on state laws and city ordinances and on safeguarding due process.
Magner reiterated the city’s 2020 statement that every employee is expected to provide "exceptional service, reliability, community engagement, and compassion" in interactions with residents. He also said staff will continue to engage with community groups and that the mayor and council can direct staff to follow up with requests for information or outreach.
Ending: Council members did not take formal action during the meeting’s visitors period. Staff said they would continue outreach and that city departments are prepared to coordinate with community organizations and legal-aid partners if directed by the council.
