SPOKANE, Wash. – A new Spokane City ordinance is set to be discussed by the City Council on Monday. This ordinance could close off parts of city parks to limit ICE activity in these areas.
Spokane resident Justin Pimsanguan expressed his support for the ordinance. “When it comes to ICE, I feel like we’ve got to do whatever we got to do to keep them from overreaching in our local communities,” he said.
“People should be able to feel confident to come down here and be a part of the community and not be afraid to come outside because there’s a tyrannical government trying to deport them.”
Local lawyer Steven Graham highlighted the potential legal implications, stating, “An individual could argue that their rights are violated by ICE if they’re arrested in a part of the city property that’s been closed for that day because it would violate the Fourth Amendment to unlawful intrusions into closed areas.”
However, Graham also pointed out ongoing concerns, noting, “It’s very troublesome that the ICE agents are plainclothes, unmarked vehicles.”
While the ordinance aims to protect vulnerable communities, Justin also shared concerns about its impact on the homeless.
“I think people would be more comfortable to come down here if there was some plan in place,” he added.
City officials emphasized that the primary goal of the ordinance is to improve safety and protect park property. The outcome of the City Council’s discussion on Monday will be closely watched.
