Bothell City Council adopted a resolution on Dec. 2 affirming the city
s support for immigrants and endorsing state laws meant to promote dignity, safety and equity.

Assistant City Manager Becky Range presented the resolution to the council and said it was based on a community draft "and staff have taken a draft that was submitted by the community and worked it a little bit to add to it, not take away." The resolution affirms that "Bothell is a better community with immigrants," and directs staff to continue complying with state privacy rules, to share know-your-rights materials with local businesses, and to coordinate resources with nonprofits serving immigrant communities.

More than a dozen residents addressed the council during public comment. Paul Dunham told the council he was speaking in support of the resolution: "My name is Paul Dunham. I'm here to state my support for the resolution affirming Bothell's support for immigrants and endorsing state laws that promote dignity, safety, and equity." Several speakers recounted personal experiences with immigrant neighbors and urged formal council action to provide reassurance and resources.

Councilmember Dodd moved to adopt the resolution "as presented," and Councilmember Kurt seconded. Multiple council members spoke in favor, highlighting both community advocacy and the city's role in protecting privacy and safety. The council adopted the resolution on a 5–0 roll-call vote.

The resolution directs staff to continue following relevant state law and court guidance on privacy, to provide materials to businesses about people
bilities and rights during immigration enforcement encounters, and to maintain partnerships with nonprofits supporting immigrant residents. Staff said they would follow up on the outreach and resource distribution steps described in the packet.

The council took no enforcement actions beyond adopting the resolution. The resolution is a policy statement and directs staff outreach and information-sharing rather than new regulatory powers.