As the Federal government has continued to attack our immigrant neighbors, residents have contacted my office as well as other Council Members and the City as a whole to ask questions and express concerns about what protections are in place for our residents. Many of you have explicitly asked questions about the Separation Ordinance (outlines the authority of City employees in matters of immigration) and the future of this policy.  

The interest, and questions, from residents increased after the federal law enforcement action that took place on East Lake Street and Bloomington Avenue on June 3, 2025. In response to questions from our communities, during the last Committee of the Whole Meeting (COW), my colleagues and I requested that City Auditor undertake a review of the City's role on June 3, 2025.  

Tomorrow, Tuesday, August 5, at the of COW meeting the City Auditor will be reporting his findings. In addition, the committee will be holding a public comment period for residents to share anything related to the topic of immigration and City policy – this is an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts and feedback about the City’s response to federal law enforcement action on June 3rd, the City’s separation ordinance, and other related topics.  

If you have questions or want to share your thoughts, I encourage you to share during the public comment period at tomorrow’s Committee of the Whole! Here is how to participate -  

Testify in person 

• When:  Tuesday August 4th at 1:30pm  

• Where: City Council Chambers Temporary Location - Public Service Building, Third Floor (250 S 4th St, Room 350) 

• Residents will have two minutes to share anything related to the topic of immigration and City policy, you can read more about rules for meetings and tips to participate.  

If you are working or unable make the public comment period, you can submit written testimony 

• Testimony can be submitted in writing at any time using this form.  

• Subject or File Number, write 2025-00784 or Immigration Enforcement 

As we continue to resist the attacks from the federal government against the most marginalized people in our communities, public comment is a necessary part of our work. I look forward to hearing from community members and neighbors. 

In Solidarity,  

Aisha Chughtai