Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Mayoral Statement Immigration topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Mount Arlington mayor urges ‘just and compassionate’ approach to immigration, backs neighbors in Roxbury
Summary
Mayor Stanzilis made a detailed statement saying immigration policy must balance law enforcement with humane treatment and expressed support for Roxbury residents seeking careful evaluation of a proposed facility’s infrastructure and safety impacts.
Mayor Stanzilis delivered a prepared statement at the March 3 council meeting describing immigration as a complex national issue that requires both enforcement and humane treatment. The mayor said, in part: "A nation must have secure borders and enforce its laws. If individuals are here illegally and committing serious crimes, they should not remain here. Public safety and the rule of law matter. At the same time, we recognize that many undocumented individuals are not violent criminals... This reality makes immigration policy deeply complex and requires thoughtful national solutions."
Stanzilis noted that decisions about proposed detention or housing facilities rest with federal authorities but said it is appropriate for neighboring communities to ask questions and advocate for residents—citing concerns such as traffic, emergency services, utilities, and long‑term community impacts. He called for "lawful and humane mechanisms" and said any facility should meet high standards of safety, professionalism, and transparency.
The remarks were framed as a statement of values and regional solidarity with Roxbury residents; no municipal action or vote followed from the remarks.
