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Mayor updates council on litigation costs opposing proposed detention facility; seeks voluntary municipal support
Summary
Council heard an update on ongoing federal litigation opposing the proposed detention facility. The mayor described continued legal expense, cited a DHS letter indicating 'no current plans,' and reported outreach to other cities asking for voluntary contributions to defray costs; the council decided not to accept individual donations to avoid public-record risks.
The mayor updated the council on continuing federal litigation challenging the proposed siting of a detention facility, telling members the city has been absorbing significant legal costs and that the "meter's still running." The mayor said a letter from the Department of Homeland Security to Congresswoman Salinas indicated "no current plans," but cautioned that the situation remains unresolved and the court process could continue. "We're continuing to be vigilant... maintaining that posture is very, very important," the mayor said.
The mayor said he has asked other cities to consider voluntary contributions to help defray legal costs but that the city will not accept individual donations due to public-record and safety concerns; instead, he said nonprofits in town can accept donations on behalf of the effort. A city staff member clarified the State of Oregon is separately represented by the Oregon Department of Justice. Councilors expressed appreciation for the mayor's work and reiterated the need to monitor developments.
