Residents urge Columbia Falls council to adopt non-cooperation policy with federal immigration enforcement

Several Columbia Falls residents called on the City Council to adopt a formal non-cooperation resolution with federal immigration enforcement agencies, arguing local safeguards are needed to protect civil liberties and limit taxpayer liability.

Anne DeGintz, who identified herself as a licensed clinical social worker and longtime Montana resident, told the council she had brought a seven-point policy proposal and a legal memorandum that maps other cities'practices. DeGintz said she was motivated by news and accounts from Minneapolis and other jurisdictions where, she said, enforcement actions had exceeded constitutional limits: "No federal agency should operate above the law," she told the council.

Other speakers, including Gracie Vergala and a commenter who identified only as Kayla, voiced similar concerns about racial profiling and urged the council to adopt a non-cooperation agreement covering unlawful detainer or detention practices.

The city clerk said the request and supporting email were received by staff but had been submitted too late to appear on tonight's agenda. The clerk said councilors had reviewed the material and that the council would decide later whether to place the item on a future agenda or otherwise consider it. City staff did not move to adopt a policy or place the item in tonight's new business.

Advocates cited legal and financial risks: DeGintz referenced recent appellate decisions that limited the use of immigration detainers without judicial oversight and cited local lawsuits in neighboring jurisdictions that led to settlements she said cost taxpayers. The council did not discuss or vote on the substance of the proposed resolution during the meeting.

Next steps: city staff acknowledged receipt of the materials and said the council would determine at a later meeting whether to schedule formal consideration.