Residents tell commission Miramar ICE check‑in practices are harming families; city asks police chief to follow up

During public participation, two activists with the American Friends Service Committee and several residents told the commission they are concerned about conditions and practices at the Miramar ICE check‑in office and requested city intervention. Yarely Mendez Zamora described families facing long detentions, limited access to legal counsel and reports that people are being held without clear information; Maria Bilbao said cars belonging to family members are being towed without clear notice and towing companies are not responsive.

Yarely Mendez Zamora said operations that separate families are happening “less than 15 minutes away” and urged the city to meet with immigration‑rights activists. Maria Bilbao asked the city to press for clear parking and towing rules and to ensure families can access due process. Samaya Wade later provided specific citations and details about a 24/7 tow zone, weekend check‑ins with no portable toilets, and cars being towed by multiple companies; she requested the city convene a follow‑up with the police chief and staff.

Vice Mayor Yvette Colburn asked the chief of police to follow up and staff committed to preparing a report for the commission. No formal action was taken beyond requesting staff follow‑up and meetings with the police chief, but commissioners acknowledged the complaints and asked for a written report to the dais.