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Community voices force removal of Department of Justice 'cities model' grant from agenda
Summary
Council removed a DOJ fiscal-year 2026 'cities model' grant item from the agenda after multiple residents and civil-rights groups raised concerns that the grant could increase policing or immigration enforcement collaboration.
The council removed a proposed Department of Justice (DOJ) fiscal-year 2026 grant application (referred to in public comment as the 'cities model' initiative) from the meeting agenda and deferred consideration to a future date after persistent public concern.
Speakers from local community organizations and immigrant-advocacy groups pressed the council to keep the item off the calendar. Natalia Staka, identifying her organization as a regional refugee and civil-rights group representative, said she had reviewed the grant materials and worried they did not match local needs; she urged the council not to reintroduce the item. “Hoy ese número 16 se retiró… respetuosamente le pedimos a los concejales que no traigan este número 16 nuevamente,” she said.
Legal and immigrant-rights advocates warned councilmembers that accepting certain federal law-enforcement–linked grants can undermine trust between residents and local police, particularly in immigrant communities. Luis Gallegos from a regional immigration legal center urged public disclosure and greater scrutiny before the city considers funds that could condition collaboration with federal agencies.
Staff had earlier announced the removal (clerk’s announcement at the start of the meeting) and the council did not act on the grant today. Speakers asked the council to vet future grant agreements publicly and to weigh risks to community trust when federal enforcement priorities are involved.
City staff indicated the item was withdrawn for future consideration; community groups said they will seek clear assurances and public review before any reintroduction of similar grants.
