2016-05-17 Regular - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Janet West, noted that May 15 is Peace Officers Day and this week is Police Officers Week; recognized lives lost in the line of duty. • Raul Rodriguez, commented that police officers are to be commended for upholding laws and serving both legal and illegal immigrants. • Juana Candia, member of OCCORD, spoke of need for dignity and respect by members of the community who speak against immigrants. • Maria Rodriguez, member of Inland Empire Youth Coalition and Immigrant Justice, opposed to ICE and transgender detention and separating members of our community. • Dr. Newman, read passage of bible regarding following laws; supports ICE contract. • Amanda Wallmer, works for Los Angeles LGBT Center, stated that today is Homophobia and Transphobia Day; opined that not all detainees are criminals; supports an end to transgender deportation. • Greg Holcomb, impressed with correctional officers and facility; renew ICE Contract; opposed to funding study on reuse. • Mitzie Perez, member of Inland Empire Youth Coalition, stand in solidarity with City; urged the City Council to cancel contract with ICE; need to keep families together. • Liz L., member of Inland Empire Immigrant Youth Coalition, supports phasing out of contract with ICE. • Chris Closser, opined that illegal activity needs to be prosecuted. • Gerry Serrano, Santa Ana Police Officers Association President, support efforts by the City Council to address public safety and provide dignified services for those imprisoned; supports item #3 and opposed to #2 not approve study on reuse. Council discussion ensued. Councilmember Amezcua, noted that all residents need to be treated with dignity; City needs to make responsible decisions for the benefit of all residents. Councilmember Reyna, commented that this is not an easy decision that has ripple effects. Councilmember Benavides, thanked all speakers; mentioned City efforts to create democratic process; citizenship fairs and the many challenges that the community phases; need to work together to make prudent decisions. Mayor Pro Tern Sarmiento, commented that vast majority of residents are law abiding; Police Department has a practice of not turning illegal aliens to ICE; recounted the many efforts by the City Council to protect immigrant rights over the years including approval of Dream Act and various resolutions on Immigration Reform; stated for the record that he does not support renewal of ICE contract; staff considering alternatives to fund jail debt; amended recommendations to request that staff look at options for CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 25 MAY 17, 2016