Councilor proposes resolution to reassure immigrant community; staff recommend legal review

Councilor Jeanette Santiago brought forward a draft resolution and administrative guidance seeking to affirm Scappoose as a safe, inclusive community and to make statewide immigrant‑support resources available to residents. Santiago said members of the community — particularly Latino and immigrant families — have reported fear, reduced public activity and school impacts, and she read proposed language and an exhibit with recommended resources and hotlines.

Council discussed how to provide reassurance without exceeding municipal authority. Staff reported they had consulted with "Ashley" (legal counsel), who recommended removing or rewording an attached Exhibit A to avoid potential federal‑grant or liability risks; staff emphasized that many of the protections cited are already contained in state law and in existing city policy. Council members suggested alternatives including a plain-language social‑media statement in English and Spanish, a proclamation, or a legal‑reviewed resolution drafted at a future work session. No formal vote was taken; council instructed staff to work with the presenter and legal counsel to refine language and bring the item back for further consideration.

Santiago provided statewide resource hotlines for residents seeking assistance and emphasized the goal was reassurance and clarity about local practice. Several council members expressed support for the intent while urging caution to avoid unintended consequences for city grants or contractual relationships.