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Tacoma City Council Restricts Unauthorized Use of Public Property for Civil Immigration Enforcement

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~ In a unanimous decision, the Tacoma City Council passed Ordinance 29105 tonight, which updates Chapter 8.10 of the Municipal Code to prohibit the unauthorized use of municipal property for civil immigration enforcement. The ordinance was brought forward by At-Large Council Member Olgy Diaz, along with co-sponsors Deputy Mayor and District 5 Council Member Joe Bushnell, District 2 Council Member Sarah Rumbaugh, and District 4 Council Member Sandesh Sadalge.

Council Member Diaz emphasized the importance of responsible use of city resources and ensuring that taxpayer-funded services are delivered efficiently and without disruption. She stated that every building, park, and vehicle owned by the city serves a specific purpose for the community members of Tacoma. The ordinance aims to preserve operational integrity by distinguishing between the city's local obligations and the operations of other jurisdictions.

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Under Ordinance 29105, with some exceptions, property owned or controlled by the city cannot be used for civil immigration enforcement purposes without permission or consent from the City of Tacoma. This includes agents from federal agencies such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The ordinance also establishes a civil enforcement process that allows the city to seek an injunction or declaratory relief in court.

Council Member Sadalge expressed his commitment to supporting immigrants and refugees since joining the City Council. He believes that this ordinance is another concrete step towards supporting those most impacted in Tacoma. It builds on previous efforts to expand the Keep Washington Working Act to all city operations and directly responds to residents' calls for action to support access and proper use of municipal property.

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Council Member Rumbaugh echoed this sentiment, stating that Tacoma is a welcoming city where everyone should feel safe. She wants municipal spaces to be known for hosting great events and providing critical services for Tacomans. She also cited evidence from other major cities showing that immigration enforcement activities disrupt and interfere with the use of municipal property. Therefore, it is the city's responsibility to preserve its property for uses that align with its values and benefit the community.

Deputy Mayor and District 5 Council Member Bushnell emphasized the council's commitment to supporting the immigrant and refugee community. He stated that each member is working tirelessly to ensure that no stone is left unturned in their efforts. They are also dedicated to taking actions that are defensible and grounded in fact. This approach is crucial as many families live in fear, and it is the council's responsibility to provide them with accurate information so they can make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

Community members can find more information about this ordinance at tacoma.gov/immigrationresources. The City Council hopes that this ordinance will contribute to making Tacoma a more welcoming and inclusive city for all its residents.

Filed Under: Government, City
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