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Select Board adopts resolution condemning warrantless detentions, will send copies to state and federal officials
Summary
The Middletown Springs Select Board voted to adopt a town resolution expressing concern about reported ICE/DHS enforcement tactics and asserting support for constitutional protections; supporters said symbolic action helps state officials pressing the issue, while others warned of possible funding repercussions.
The Middletown Springs Select Board adopted a resolution expressing the town’s support for constitutional protections against warrantless searches and detentions and asking state and federal representatives to act.
The resolution’s presenters said the text was modeled on a measure passed in nearby Williston and reflected concerns raised in letters and media reports. “We feel the need to take some sort of a stand,” one presenter said, urging the board to adopt the language and forward copies to state senators, the governor and congressional representatives. The meeting packet named Elizabeth Cooper and Sarah Shaw as the resolution’s presenters; the board discussed the draft and Chair offered minor punctuation edits before voting.
Supporters cited a letter from U.S. Sen. Peter Welch and press accounts alleging aggressive enforcement tactics in other states. A resident said the town’s high voter turnout makes a local statement meaningful. Other members raised practical concerns: one board member asked whether adopting the resolution could jeopardize grant eligibility, citing a recent discussion about ARPA funds and “sanctuary” designations. The board discussed those risks but ultimately voted to adopt the resolution with the suggested edits and to distribute printed copies under the town letterhead.
The board recorded the motion as carried by voice vote. The resolution will be copied and mailed to state senators, the state representative, the governor and other officials as discussed.
