Residents ask Snoqualmie City Council to prepare policies for possible ICE operations
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Summary
Residents urged the council to review city policies and preparedness for potential ICE enforcement in the Snoqualmie Valley, requesting clearer staff guidance, protections for protests, disclosure about surveillance technology and community training; the mayor said the city does not use Flock camera technology.
Dozens of residents told the Snoqualmie City Council on Jan. 26 that the city should proactively review policies and planning in case federal immigration enforcement activity increases in the Snoqualmie Valley.
"I'm here tonight to respectfully request that the city proactively evaluate its policies and preparedness if ICE activity were to increase in the Snoqualmie Valley," said Jesse Scruppa, speaking for Snoqualmie Valley Indivisible, which he said has about 1,100 members across Snoqualmie, North Bend, Fall City and unincorporated King County. Scruppa cited recent national incidents that raised concern among local residents about safety and the use of municipal facilities.
Other speakers described fear among undocumented residents and students and asked the city for specific steps: a review of how city-owned property and facilities might be used in enforcement operations, clearer guidance for staff, modest policy updates to prevent local use as an operational base, and community training. "People are being killed," said Christie Coffeen, a Snoqualmie resident, arguing that frightened immigrants are avoiding emergency services and schools.
Andre Tessman urged the city to disclose whether it uses Flock camera technology, to clarify who would have access to any such systems and to explicitly state the city’s commitment to protecting constitutional rights for protesters. "I would request that the city explicitly state its commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of all residents," Tessman said.
Mayor Mayhew responded to the specific technology question: "The city of Snoqualmie does not use any technology that involves Flock, cameras or Flock technology." The mayor thanked speakers for their comments and said staff would consider next steps.
Speakers also asked the council to coordinate with schools and community groups. Karen Rocco, who said she taught high school for 34 years, said ICE actions can cause significant stress for students and suggested the council coordinate with the school board.
The council did not take immediate action on a policy change during the meeting; public comment was noted and closed before the council proceeded with other agenda items. Council members and staff indicated willingness to consider requests and to provide follow-up where appropriate.