Intergovernmental Relations Committee approves Operation Stone Garden grant amid immigration concerns

The Monroe County Intergovernmental Relations Committee voted 3–2 July 27 to accept a grant from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services for the Operation Stone Garden program and to authorize intermunicipal agreements with local towns including Webster.

Legislator Hughes Smith, who voted against the referral, said he worried the program could harm trust between residents and local law enforcement. "So it is my view that communities are safer when community members know that there's an agency that they can reach out to without fear," Hughes Smith said. He added his concern that "collaboration in any regards between local and federal agencies causes distrust," and that any program perceived as connected to immigration enforcement could discourage people from calling 911.

Chief Deputy Fowler of the Monroe County Sheriff's Office described the program and took questions through the chair. Fowler confirmed program details and that the department provided briefings before the vote. Chairman Blankley also explained his opposition while praising deputies' professionalism, saying his "concerns...are rooted in transparency, accountability, and the evolving role of Federal immigration enforcement." Despite those objections, a majority supported accepting the funds; roll call recorded Hughes Smith and Chairman Blankley voting no, and Johns, Long and McIntyre voting yes, producing a 3–2 passage.

The committee record shows the motion was moved and seconded and that the referral will proceed per the terms presented to the committee. No changes to the motion were recorded during the meeting. The committee did not adopt additional restrictions on how the grant funds may be used during this session.