Council defers vote on immigration-enforcement resolution after sheriff and members raise concerns

The Salt Lake County Council voted to defer a proposed resolution that would express the county's intent to cooperate with federal immigration-enforcement activities.

Councilmember Shelton Stewart introduced the measure to signal the county's support for law-enforcement efforts related to noncitizen criminal activity. "Also it does it says that we'll cooperate with the governing body, and support them in their efforts to root out these illegal immigrants that have come and committed crimes," Stewart said when introducing the resolution.

Sheriff Rosie Rivera told the council the sheriff's office already works with federal partners and urged care in the resolution's language so it would not alarm residents or lead victims to avoid contacting law enforcement. "I want to ensure that our communities, our residents are not fearful and that they don't believe that we're infringing on anybody's rights," Rivera said. She added that sheriffs statewide are working with federal partners and that the office must balance enforcement with community trust.

Several council members said the measure's legal effect is unclear until a new federal administration issues specific guidance and regulations. Councilmembers proposed amendments to emphasize support for the sheriff and to ask the federal government to improve coordination with local sheriffs.

Councilmember Stewart moved to defer the item and bring it back at the first meeting in February to allow amendment of the draft language and further consultation with Sheriff Rivera and MSD communications staff. The motion carried by voice vote. The item will return to the council agenda with revised language and proposed outreach steps.