Orange council adopts resolution supporting New Jersey Immigrant Trust Act after public testimony

The City of Orange Township council voted to adopt Resolution 465-2025, expressing support for the intent of the New Jersey State Immigrant Trust Act, after an extended discussion and multiple public comments urging passage.

Council debate centered on timing and legal review. A sponsor argued the nonbinding resolution would affirm the city—s commitment to protecting residents regardless of immigration status while not restricting police from executing warrants. The sponsor said the measure—s goal is to create "safe havens" where residents can access schools, libraries and services without fear their information will be used for federal immigration enforcement.

County liaison Reginald Bledsoe and several residents and advocates urged passage at public comment. Bledsoe noted county-level ceremonial resolutions supporting the legislation and listed upcoming county outreach and food-distribution events. Public speakers included Virgilio Arang of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, who said fear of immigration enforcement has reduced customers at local businesses after a recent federal operation, and Stuart Seidenstreicher and Adam McGovern, who described how trust policies encourage reporting of crime and community stability. "The act allows local police to focus on public safety rather than federal immigration enforcement," Arang said.

Police Chief Brian Mooney addressed operational practice and state guidance during the meeting, saying the department follows New Jersey attorney-general guidelines and "does not honor ICE detainers," and emphasizing that the city—s officers do not ask about immigration status as part of routine enforcement.

Several council members recommended a legal and operational review before final implementation language is adopted: one council member asked the law department to consult with police to ensure the municipality would not unintentionally impede enforcement of valid warrants or create operational conflicts. The council moved the resolution to a separate vote; roll-call recorded a majority in favor with one abstention and the motion passed. The adopted resolution is a municipal expression of support urging state legislators and the governor to consider the policy at the state level.

The council did not change local police procedures in the meeting; staff were asked to report back with any recommendations or legal opinions as needed.