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Lynnwood council unanimously adopts resolution affirming immigrant safety and directing staff to clarify city policies
Summary
The council voted 7–0 to adopt resolution 202605, which asks the mayor and departments to clarify how city property and resources may or may not be used by federal immigration agents, to publish accessible 'know your rights' resources, and to publicly explain police procedures when federal immigration actions occur.
The Lynnwood City Council voted unanimously Monday to adopt a resolution reaffirming constitutional rights and steps the city will take to protect immigrant and refugee residents, including directing the mayor to ensure department staff understand how to respond when federal immigration agents seek access to city property or resources.
Council member Mata, who introduced the resolution, said she worked with constitutional law experts and the city attorney while drafting the text to avoid imposing obligations that could place local law enforcement in conflict with federal officers. "We have not set our steps up for any legal ramifications whatsoever. Period," Mata said, summarizing her legal consultations and edits to the draft.
The resolution asks the mayor to direct departmental staff to be clear about policy when federal agents request access to city facilities or resources, urges transparent community‑oriented policing practices, and requests development of an accessible set of community resources that explain residents’ rights when interacting with immigration authorities.
Council members emphasized that the measure is intended to reassure residents, not to impede lawful federal enforcement. Council Vice President Escamilla and others described the resolution as substantive and necessary for community trust; Mayor Hurst said the mayor’s office was already implementing many of the requested actions. The resolution passed on a roll call vote, 7–0.
Implementation steps include a request that the police chief and mayor clarify internal procedures and that the human services office help prepare printed and web resources so residents can find guidance without needing internet access. Staff and council said they will report back with updates as departments identify specific actions and timelines.
