The Phoenix City Council on Wednesday approved a fresh initiative designed to increase oversight of federal immigration enforcement within city limits. The measure passed by an 8-1 vote after nearly three hours of discussion.
New Restrictions on ICE Operations
The approved plan restricts Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from using city of Phoenix property as a staging area or operational base without explicit permission from the city manager. Exceptions to this rule include Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and situations involving a valid judicial warrant or a fleeing suspect.
Phoenix Police Chief Michael Giordano will serve as the primary point of contact for any federal, state, or local agency seeking to use city property for law enforcement purposes. The policy similarly mandates that city workers document any potential civil rights violations during federal immigration enforcement activities and receive training on judicial warrants.
The city will begin collecting data on federal immigration enforcement activities and their impact on city services, such as the police and fire departments. A “Know Your Rights” campaign will also be launched, with materials available in over 120 languages.
While the policy clarifies restrictions on ICE operations, city leaders emphasized that Phoenix police officers do not have oversight authority over the federal government. Some residents expressed concern during public comment that the authority to grant permission rests with unelected officials.
The City Council will also review existing rules governing the use of city property, including parks, by outside groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Community Transparency Initiative do?
The initiative bans ICE from using city of Phoenix property as a staging area or home base for operations without special permission from the city manager, with exceptions for Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and emergency situations.
Who will be the main contact for federal agencies wanting to use city property?
Phoenix Police Chief Michael Giordano will serve as the main contact for any federal, state, or local agency that wants to use city property for law enforcement.
What prompted this initiative?
The initiative was released in response to January’s federal raids at Valley Zipps locations and the Department of Homeland Security buying a Surprise warehouse for $70 million to convert into an ICE detention center.
How might this policy affect future interactions between federal immigration enforcement and the city of Phoenix?
