Oregon City residents press commission on federal immigration actions; police chief reiterates department policy

Mayor Denise McGriff opened the meeting by noting dozens of letters from residents concerned about recent federal immigration enforcement activity and invited the police chief to respond.

Chief Davis told the commission that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the federal government and cited state statutes (ORS provisions referenced during the remarks) and a departmental policy. "We do not engage in civil immigration enforcement, nor do we interfere with federal officers carrying out their lawful duties," he said, adding the department will focus on criminal investigations, community safety and building trust.

Several residents used the public‑comment period to press for stronger local action. Tara Wanstall, a downtown café owner, raised a separate downtown permitting concern but joined others in asking the city to be mindful of how enforcement and related events affect vulnerable residents. Amy Mitchell of Oregon City Indivisible urged police to “loudly” document ICE contractor activity and to use professional equipment and presence to protect residents and witnesses. "Our trust in our local law enforcement to protect us has disappeared because we don't know what side you stand on," she said.

Longtime resident Mike Stetzel described reports of federal agents detaining people without warrants or clear probable cause and asked whether those taken are being informed of their rights. Jen Mess said volunteers in the community had begun escorting immigrant children and families to school and appointments because of fear in the wake of recent federal actions. "These efforts are beautiful acts of solidarity, but they're also heartbreaking," she said, urging the commission to reaffirm commitments to due process and to Oregon's sanctuary laws.

The chief acknowledged community concerns and noted the department's policy and limited use of exclusion tools in parks and public facilities. Commissioners accepted the public comments and said they would pass correspondence to county authorities where jurisdiction applies. No formal city policy change was adopted at the meeting; Chief Davis and commissioners indicated they would continue to coordinate with county partners and review any needed clarifications to department practice.

What's next: The commission did not take formal action on local immigration policy at this meeting; correspondence and public comments will be part of ongoing discussions with Clackamas County and city staff.