All five council members approved a motion to draft a brief in support of the federal government’s lawsuit against the state of California for Senate Bill 54, the California Values Act, commonly known as the “sanctuary” law during their May 8 meeting.
Hundreds of Santa Clarita residents, and many out-of-towners from across the state, packed the council chambers to voice their opinions.
“I am for Santa Clarita joining in with other cities in opposition to SB 54 and cooperating with federal immigration agencies,” said Jerry Rhodes. “There is a difference between legal and illegal immigration, and there is a difference between helping citizens and noncitizens. There is a difference between illegal law-abiding aliens, and that’s an oxymoron if I’ve ever heard one, and criminal illegal aliens.”
Several of the speakers in favor of drafting the brief in support of the federal lawsuit regarding SB 54 were cited fears of crime illegal immigration might bring to the city.
The discussion was heated on both sides with over 100 speakers during the public comment, with about 60 in favor of the action, and 40 speaking against.
We have law enforcement saying this isn’t the right move; we have residents saying this isn’t the right move, and we have ICE data saying sanctuary cities are safer cities,” said Logan Smith. “But if you take this action and vote for this, you want (immigrants) to live in fear every single day. And you don’t want them to pursue the American dream.”
The residents against the motion cited the potential social and economic impacts the action might have on the city including tourism, filming and attracting new business.
Other people against the motion discussed the “family” environment Santa Clarita has fostered, and expressed to the city council to be welcoming of all families.
The speakers were interrupted with both boos and cheers by the vocal crowd, as the mayor attempted to keep control of the room.
“This behavior is not going to help us solve the problem,” said Mayor Laurene Weste, pausing the meeting to tame the crowd. “I want everyone to have their opportunity to voice their opinion.”
Some of the speakers called out the council members during the meeting, stating their vote will be a deciding factor in the upcoming election in November.
“It’s not about elections,” said Councilman Bill Miranda. “It’s about doing the right thing. Illegal immigrants have affected the Latino community more than anyone else.”
Councilman Cameron Smyth spoke on the narrow focus on the action which was “not about immigration,” but more about SB 54.
“The federal government has failed us on their constitutional requirements,” said Smyth. “We need an immigration system that is fair. It now trickles down to the local level.
