Board approves 'Riverside for All' resolution after hours of public testimony; 4-1 vote

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution affirming the county as a “vibrant, compassionate, and welcoming place for law‑abiding immigrants and refugees” after hours of public testimony and a 4–1 vote.

Supporters and opponents filled the room and lined up on the phone queue as dozens of residents, nonprofit leaders and students delivered two‑minute statements for and against item 3.32. Supporters said the resolution would protect residents’ access to basic services and public safety reporting; opponents argued it amounted to a sanctuary declaration that could jeopardize federal funding.

Crystal Otworth of the Leadership Council for Justice and Accountability, one of the earliest callers, urged the board to expand services and legal information for North Shore residents and said the measure would help people “access essential services without fear.” Several immigrant‑rights groups and legal aid organizations, including speakers who identified themselves as affiliated with CHIRLA and the Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice, told the board the measure reflects state law and is needed so undocumented residents will report crimes and seek health care.

Opponents such as Roy Bleckert and others told supervisors the wording amounts to a sanctuary policy and warned of lost federal funds. One speaker said the board was “declaring Riverside County a sanctuary jurisdiction” and had shared that conclusion with national Republican leaders.

Board members pressed county staff and counsel about fiscal and legal risks. County counsel and the county executive officer said the resolution contains clarifying paragraphs that require county departments to comply with state and federal law and does not direct any immediate spending. The county counsel noted specific paragraphs (8 and 9 in the draft) that preserve departmental compliance with state/federal law and the prosecutorial independence of the district attorney and sheriff.

Supervisor Chuck Washington and other supporters framed the vote as a reaffirmation of existing practice and an attempt to keep communities connected to services. Several supervisors expressed concern about inflammatory public remarks but said they would not let that silence residents who seek help.

The board approved the measure as recommended on a 4–1 vote following the public comment and exchange.

What happens next: The resolution is a statement of county policy; board members suggested follow‑up work with nonprofits and county departments to clarify how information and services will be made available to immigrant residents.