Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Immigration Enforcement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents urge declaration against armed ICE operations; council debates risks to federal funding
Summary
Speakers asked the council to adopt a resolution opposing masked and armed ICE activity in town; councilors debated potential retaliation, impact on vulnerable program beneficiaries and alternatives such as a joint statement or community outreach before drafting any resolution.
Three public speakers at the Feb. 9 Town Council meeting urged the council to adopt a statement or resolution opposing armed and masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in North Kingstown and to declare the town a welcoming and safe place for residents.
Norman Fortin told the council that small towns should take a public stand and asked for a resolution making clear that "masked and armed ICE agents are not welcomed in our town," while clarifying that routine cooperative work between local law enforcement and federal authorities would not be prevented.
Jennifer Lima, speaking as a resident and a school committee member, said she has repeatedly asked the council for a resolution and urged action, saying "the time for inaction has long passed." Other speakers asked the council to prioritize safety and community reassurance for families who might be afraid to send children to school or seek services.
Councilors expressed concern about unintended consequences. The council president said he was worried that a formal resolution could lead to federal retaliation or withholding of grants that benefit vulnerable residents, citing $6 million in federal funding the town receives for school lunch programs and special-education services. Several councilors proposed alternatives: drafting a joint public statement with the town manager, police department and school department that emphasizes "everybody is welcome and safe here," and first convening directly with groups who would be most affected (for example parents who receive subsidized lunches or families with IEP beneficiaries) before taking formal action.
Councilor Kim and others offered to draft language and to consult community groups; the council agreed to reach out to affected stakeholders and return with a proposed statement or draft that reflects input from those most at risk.
Next steps: council members will convene with staff and affected community groups to draft a possible statement; no formal resolution was adopted at the meeting.
