"We can craft an ordinance that makes it clear that unless it's required by law that city funds and resources will not be used to enforce immigration law, that's not our role," Mayor Vic Deluca said at the meeting after a lengthy discussion. "I don't think anyone up here is saying we want to break the law."
TC Member Ian Grodman first proposed the idea on Nov. 14, stating the Township could follow other cities that have stated through resolutions that they will not aid in the federal effort to demonize or arrest residents suspected of being undocumented.
"I have seen and heard the great majority of people living in this community are in favor of it," Grodman said.
His comments followed testimony from several residents who supported the idea.
See some of those views below:
"I wholeheartedly support this step for Maplewood," TC Member Greg Lembrich said. Fellow Committee Member Nancy Adams added, "I think we need to send a really strong message to Washington."
TC Member India Larrier offered caution, stating: "I'm reserved about making Maplewood a sanctuary city ... I would rather see initially a resolution that would put forth our values as we have in the past." She cited a "welcoming city" designation.
But the majority directed that legislation be fashioned, with input from the police department, for January consideration.
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