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San Marcos public comments split over ICE; speakers urge both protection from and support for federal enforcement
Summary
Public commenters urged the council to oppose local cooperation with ICE and called for protections for immigrant residents, while other speakers argued for supporting federal immigration enforcement; the council heard contrasting personal accounts and allegations.
During oral communications the council heard sharply contrasting public comments about federal immigration enforcement and local obligations.
Carol Gandell told the council she was speaking "as a private citizen" urging elected leaders to "stand up to protect all the members of our community from the current attacks by ICE and the Department of Homeland Security," and asked the city not to allow license-plate readers or other contracts that could aid federal immigration enforcement on city property.
Lil Anderson also urged the council not to cooperate with ICE and asked the sheriff's department to protect residents. Anderson alleged recent harmful actions in custody, including the death of a small child in ICE custody and recounted community fear of enforcement.
By contrast, Richard Newton said he supports ICE and federal enforcement of immigration law, arguing "laws must be enforced" and urging people not to interfere with law enforcement operations.
The council received these contrasting viewpoints during the public-comment period; no council motions or formal policy decisions on cooperation with federal agencies were made at this meeting, and council members noted regional SANDAG discussions about data-sharing with federal partners will return to committee.
