Bernalillo officials say federal agents will not conduct routine immigration arrests in schools or hospitals; mayor seeks to rejoin Main Street New Mexico

Chief Stoyell summarized what he said was guidance from a Department of Homeland Security meeting he attended with other police chiefs: federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are not going to make routine arrests inside schools, churches or hospitals except to apprehend an identified fugitive; they are not conducting ID checks on reservations and local law enforcement agencies are not required to serve civil immigration warrants. "HSI insured us that they're not going to be going to any schools, churches, or hospitals to make any arrest," he said, and added that HSI is focusing enforcement on violent gang members and those accused of serious crimes. He also said victims and witnesses of crimes will not be deported as a result of cooperating with investigations.

Town Administrator Ida Fierro reminded the council that the Animal Control Ordinance review will be held the next morning at 10:30 a.m. in council chambers, and Mayor Torres said the town has begun discussions to rejoin Main Street New Mexico, a program the town participated in years ago. "Our intent is to get back on that program," he said, adding that staff will update the council as they move the effort forward.

Mayor Torres also told the council staff are following the state Legislature and tracking several preemption bills that could limit local authority, including a large election bill that would affect the town’s optional March election maintenance. He encouraged council members to notify staff or legislators with influence on committees considering those bills.

John Ziegler was introduced as the town attorney; Mayor Torres said Ziegler’s firm has represented the town in personnel matters and will take on additional matters going forward.

No formal council action was recorded on these announcements during the Feb. 10 meeting.