Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Communications topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
St. Charles staff and police propose website and resources clarifying local role on immigration enforcement
Summary
City staff and Police Chief presented proposed website content explaining the department’s role under the Trust Act and clarifying that local officers do not enforce federal immigration law; councilmembers urged quick publication, community forums, and translated materials while legal counsel reviews the limits of municipal action.
City staff and the St. Charles Police Department presented proposed website language Aug. 24 intended to clarify for residents what local police will and will not do regarding federal immigration enforcement. City Administrator Heather McGuire said staff were responding to earlier direction and to public concern by drafting explanatory content and resource links.
Chief Likens told the Government Operations Committee the department would emphasize that it does not enforce immigration law, does not routinely communicate with ICE about federal operations, and responds to calls for service in the city consistent with state and federal law. He said the department planned to publish FAQs, key talking points, and resource links that explain the Trust Act and procedural limits in plain language.
Councilmembers expressed support for publishing information quickly but asked for more human‑centered language, clear instructions for residents about when to call 911, additional links (for example to statewide immigration resource hubs), and consideration of community forums organized by the Equity & Inclusion commission or partners. Several members suggested a short resolution or proclamation to signal the city’s attention while cautioning that municipal authority to affect federal enforcement is limited.
Chief Likens and staff said calls for service and internal reports document any interactions with federal agencies and that staff would explore ways to summarize that information for council or the public. Members also recommended translating content into Spanish and other languages and discussed potential 'Know Your Rights' materials through community partners rather than the city providing legal advice.
Next steps: staff will refine website copy with input from legal counsel, expand resource links and outreach plans, and return with implementation steps for council review.
