Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania — The Luzerne County Council convened on January 16, 2024, to discuss a proposed resolution addressing concerns over federal immigration enforcement practices. Councilwoman Dawn Simmons highlighted the personal impact of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, sharing her family’s experience with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Her brother, a naturalized citizen and veteran, faced detention under controversial immigration policies, prompting Simmons to express her fears for him and others in similar situations.
During the meeting, council members presented a range of opinions on the resolution, which aims to express concerns regarding recent incidents of fatal force used by immigration enforcement officers. Over 30 residents voiced their thoughts, reflecting a spectrum of views from supporting the resolution to advocating for stricter measures or outright opposition to immigration enforcement.
Simmons recounted her brother’s ordeal, stating, “ICE picked him up, put him in a detention center as a veteran. He had to fight tooth and nail to get out.” This personal narrative underscored the emotional weight of the council’s discussion, as Simmons argued for a resolution that would make a meaningful statement against such enforcement practices.
Councilwoman Denise Williams introduced the resolution, which references recent fatalities involving federal immigration officers in Minnesota. The proposed measure seeks to address the implications of these events on civil liberties and public safety. Williams noted that the resolution is a necessary step in light of the county’s existing cooperative agreement with ICE, signed by District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce as part of the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to assist in immigration enforcement.
Concerns about potential retaliation from the federal government were raised during the meeting. Councilman Steve Coslett expressed apprehension that passing the resolution could lead to an influx of ICE agents in Luzerne County, stating, “I think it is a very dangerous area right now.” He urged caution, suggesting that the county should remain neutral until faced with direct enforcement actions.
Other residents echoed concerns for immigrant communities in the area, particularly with ICE’s plans to establish large detention centers nearby. The proposed facility in Tremont Township, approximately 30 miles from Luzerne County, is intended to house up to 7,500 detainees, further amplifying fears among local constituents.
The council received a significant amount of feedback in the form of emails, prompting discussions on whether to revise their policy regarding public communication. Chairman Jimmy Sabatino read 19 emails from residents, illustrating the varied reactions to the resolution and immigration issues at large.
As the meeting concluded, Sabatino acknowledged uncertainty about the council’s next steps regarding the resolution. Vice Chairwoman Brittany Stephenson expressed a desire to enhance the resolution’s language and invited more community participation in future discussions. “I think it was very good intentions for sure,” she said, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue on the topic.
This deliberation reflects a broader trend in Pennsylvania, with counties like Lackawanna and Allegheny considering measures to oppose the federal immigration crackdown. In contrast, officials in Lehigh and Northampton counties are urging property owners to refrain from selling to immigration enforcement officials, illustrating the contentious nature of immigration policy at the local level.
As Luzerne County Council grapples with these complex issues, the resolution remains a critical focal point for community engagement and response to federal immigration enforcement actions.
