Renton City Council considers restrictions on ICE activity

The Renton City Council is evaluating measures to restrict U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) civil immigration activities on city-owned buildings and property. While the council previously moved to ban ICE activity, the public safety committee recently recommended against passing a formal ordinance, citing a lack of enforcement capability.

Despite the decision against an ordinance, officials are developing policies to guide city employees. Councilmember James Alberson noted that while local police cannot legally interfere with federal law enforcement, a policy is being established to ensure employees do not aid ICE or allow access to non-public city property. Councilmember Valerie O’Halloran stated that staff are working on guidelines to help employees navigate potential encounters and avoid putting themselves in harm’s way.