Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Immigration Enforcement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Westchester council advances debate on ordinance to require approval before 287(g) immigration agreements
Summary
Council directed the solicitor to draft an ordinance requiring borough council approval before the police department can enter into any 287(g) immigration‑enforcement cooperation agreement; the proposal prompted extended public comment and a split among council on whether an ordinance or policy is the appropriate tool.
Council members moved the draft ordinance a step forward on Feb. 17, 2026, directing the borough solicitor to prepare language that would require Westchester Borough Council approval before the police department may enter into any 287(g) or similar immigration‑enforcement cooperation agreement.
Supporters said the ordinance would add transparency and public oversight for any use of borough resources in federal immigration enforcement, noting that such agreements require police time, training and equipment that affect taxpayers. "Oversight is not optional," Councilman Sean McGinnis said, urging a public hearing and committee review so residents can weigh costs, authority and safeguards.
Opponents, including Mayor (name not specified in the transcript) and several council members, argued that the borough already follows a written policy and that a binding ordinance could be an unnecessary expansion of council authority into police operations governed by the Home Rule Charter. The mayor warned the debate itself could draw attention to immigrant residents and said the police chief, Josh Lee, had confirmed the department does not engage in immigration enforcement with ICE.
Residents and community leaders gave lengthy public comment. Neli Jimenez, who identified herself as an immigrant and West Goshen resident, told the council she supports measures that would ensure the borough does not enter a 287(g) agreement and urged formal protections beyond a statement. Other speakers said they feared debate could make immigrants more visible to federal enforcement and urged council to consult directly with local immigrant communities before final action.
Police Chief Josh Lee told council he does not currently cooperate with ICE in immigration enforcement and cautioned that operational direction over police activities is primarily the responsibility of the mayor under the Home Rule Charter. Several council members said that difference — policy versus law — was central to their views: some called a resolution or policy insufficient because statements can be rescinded, while others said an ordinance risks overreach and possible legal challenges.
The council majority decided to move the proposal to the full discussion agenda and a public hearing on the following day to collect additional testimony and allow the solicitor to finalize draft language. No final vote was taken at the work session.
What happens next: the ordinance language will be drafted by the solicitor and the item will appear on the council's discussion agenda and for public comment on Feb. 18, 2026.
