Residents and neighborhood group ask Butte-Silver Bow commissioners to back a task force to protect immigrant neighbors

At a Feb. 25 Committee of the Whole meeting, neighbors and members of the group Butte Strong urged Butte-Silver Bow county leaders to form a community task force to coordinate responses to immigration-enforcement activity and reduce fear among immigrant residents.

Jesse Gonzalez, representing Butte Strong Neighborhood Watch, told the commission that the group has seen "confirmed sightings" of enforcement activity and said the group’s mission is to "support community, safety, dignity, and the well-being" of neighbors who may be disproportionately impacted. "We are asking what can we do together with other city officials and the city commissioners to prevent those residing in Butte from being taken, harmed or executed in the streets?" Gonzalez said.

Why it matters: Speakers said fear of enforcement harms children’s mental health, family stability and community trust, and that clear information and pre‑emptive support reduce escalation. Multiple residents and clinicians — including Carissa Story and Jessica Jones — said education about rights and calm communication are public‑safety measures.

Commissioners responded with appreciation for the presentation but sought specifics. Chief Executive Gallagher and the county attorney said they were not aware of confirmed incidents in Butte‑Silver Bow and asked Gonzalez for details. Gallagher asked, "we would like to know what information that is," and said officials on the dais and the sheriff were not aware of corroborated local incidents. Gonzalez said some people asked to remain anonymous and offered to discuss evidence with county officials outside the public meeting.

Several commissioners voiced support for follow‑up. Commissioner Shea thanked Gonzalez for bringing the issue "to the public floor," and Commissioner Fisher said the presentation "enlightened" him. Commissioner Healy said she is committed to helping. The commission placed communication 2026‑83 on file following the presentation; no formal task force was created on the record during the meeting.

What happens next: Gonzalez requested meetings with county officials and commissioners; commissioners indicated willingness to follow up and asked Gonzalez to provide corroborating details privately so officials can determine any investigative or administrative steps. No formal directive or vote to form a task force was taken at the Feb. 25 session.