2017-03-21 Regular - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

• Marilyn Rubio, agreed with other speakers that proposal contradicts policy, willing to work with other coalitions to ensure that City is a Sanctuary City. • Gerry Serrano, Santa Ana Police Officer Association President, commented that law enforcement does not detain solely on immigrant status; City Council to consider employees that work for the City that would be impacted if ICE contract not extended. Council discussion ensued. Councilmember Solorio, motioned seconded by Councilmember Villages to move as proposed. Police Chief Rojas, responded to questions by Councilmember Solorio on mischaracterizations re- iterated that we are not federal law enforcement agency; police officers do not request immigrant status documentation; detainee's crimes range from DUI to felony — Santa Ana Detentions is not a point of entry; currently have 17 detainees; some former inmates have been transferred to Adelanto or state of New Mexico. Councilmember Solorio, thanked speakers on both sides; do not support family division; supports comprehensive immigration reform; opined that detentions will continue to occur and question is where will they be housed; need to hold Councilmembers accountable; jail should not be privatized because they are incentivized to make a profit; commit to have discussion on this and other related and pressing issues. Police Chief Rojas, indicated that out of 17 only 1 had a Santa Ana address; 8 are California residents and balance are from out of state; part of booking process would require citizenship information. Councilmember Sarmiento, thanked employees and all representatives that addressed the City on this issue; noted that Santa Ana arrestees are housed at the County of Orange; accountable and have policies in place to investigate complaints; need to work with lobbyist, speak to US Marshals Office to expand the contract with Bureau of Prisons. Proposed substitute motion, seconded by Councilmember Tinajero. Councilmember Tinajero, acknowledged the work and efforts of our correctional officers; City needs to focus on affordability component; City does not have a holding facility; Santa Ana is the only Title II Jail Facility in the State of California; total operational cost was $16 million equating to $4 million annual deficit; sales tax decrease and water transfer funds augment fiscal deficits; proposed that employees be reassigned to other City positions; City Council needs to make a policy decision whether to keep jail facility open; address staffing and creative options; has not heard compelling information to believe that ICE will re- negotiate contract; urged the Police Officers Association to partner with City and support a 1/2% sales tax increase for public safety; denounce Trump support; transition employees into other positions. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 16 MARCH 21, 2017