Carlisle council adopts ‘Community Trust’ ordinance limiting local cooperation with civil immigration enforcement

Carlisle Borough Council on Nov. 13 adopted an ordinance described by supporters as a formal codification of existing borough practice that limits borough agents from assisting federal civil immigration enforcement in most routine situations.

The ordinance, titled the "Carlisle Community Trust and Local Autonomy Ordinance," passed on a roll-call vote of 6–1 after an extended public-comment period that drew dozens of speakers. Deputy Mayor Landis, Councilors Terry, Bruce, Shiles and Stewie and Mayor Sean Schultz voted in favor; Councilor Mellon voted no.

Supporters at the meeting and in public comment framed the ordinance as a narrow protection for everyday interactions between residents and borough staff. "The ordinance really does nothing to change or improve our current policy or procedures, but it simply codifies what already exists," Councilor Mallon said during the council discussion, urging colleagues that the text aligns with existing practice.

Public speakers who supported the ordinance told the council it would build trust between immigrant residents and local authorities and make residents more likely to report crimes or request emergency help without fear of immigration inquiries. "This ordinance is in keeping with our community's values and stays within legal parameters," said Margaret Froelich, who urged the council to adopt the measure.

Opponents warned the ordinance could conflict with federal authority, risk litigation, and endanger borough funding. Mark Matea, a resident speaking against the measure, asked why the borough would adopt a standard that, he said, "doesn't ask about citizenship," arguing the change could expose the borough to legal and fiscal risk.

Legal arguments at the meeting referenced constitutional doctrine and federal statutes. Council supporters cited anti-commandeering principles — the idea that the federal government cannot force state or local agencies to carry out federal regulatory programs — and discussed a recent Third Circuit decision the council's solicitor reviewed as part of the legal analysis. Critics, including a state representative in attendance, warned the council that immigration and naturalization are federal responsibilities under Article I of the Constitution and that local sanctuary policies can be preempted by federal law.

The ordinance text includes a provision that borough agents "shall not condition the provision of borough services or benefits on matters related to citizenship or immigration status unless mandated by federal or state law or a court order." It also states borough resources should not be used to assist federal civil immigration enforcement except in response to an imminent threat to life or public safety or when required by a court order.

Mayor Sean Schultz framed the ordinance as consistent with the borough's prior statement on the issue and with constitutional protections against federal commandeering of local resources. After debate the mayor called the question and ordered a roll-call vote. The motion carried, and the council adjourned later that evening.

The ordinance will be codified in the borough code; the council did not specify any immediate changes to operations beyond formalizing the policy. Officials noted the borough solicitor had reviewed the text and that future legal challenges were possible; several speakers had urged tabling to allow further study, but the majority voted to adopt the measure.

What happens next: the ordinance takes effect as adopted by the council and borough staff will continue to operate according to the codified policy while monitoring potential legal developments and any impacts on grants or federal funding.