Town Attorney briefs Edmonston council on DHS list; council enters closed session

Town Attorney Jason Deloach told the Town of Edmonston council on June 3 that the Department of Homeland Security's list could prompt requests for municipal compliance and raise legal consequences for towns that do not comply. Deloach said the situation may affect federal grant funding and described actions the town could take if the federal government requests compliance.

Council members discussed the implications for grant-funded programs and town policies that would govern any response to a federal request. Deloach also reported that Governor Moore is preparing statements and taking steps in response to possible federal litigation or requests for compliance.

At 5:57 p.m., Council Member Sarah Turberville moved, seconded by Council Member Kony Serrano-Portillo, to go into a closed session to consult with counsel to obtain legal advice on the matter. The attendees for the closed session were listed as Mayor Tracy R. Gant, Council Members Betsy McCauley, Kony Serrano-Portillo, Sarah Turberville, Town Administrator Rod Barnes, Police Chief Eric Beale, and Town Attorney Jason Deloach. The council returned to regular session at 6:35 p.m.; Council Member Betsy McCauley moved, seconded by Council Member Sarah Turberville, to adjourn from the closed session and return to regular session. Ayes on the return motion were McCauley, Serrano and Turberville; Johnson was recorded as absent.

Minutes show the council took the step of consulting counsel but do not record further public direction, a vote on formal policy changes, or any final decision about compliance. The issue was treated as a legal matter requiring confidential advice; next public steps were not specified in the minutes.