Council tentatively approves ICE 287(g) participation pending MOA review and clerk sign‑off

Town Marshal Keith and visiting Chief Campbell (Banebridge) described the ICE 287(g) program as a federal partnership that allows local officers to access immigration‑related databases to identify persons of interest. Keith framed the program primarily as a safety tool for officers during traffic stops; Campell described training, operations and the potential reimbursement structure tied to participating officers.

Council raised administrative concerns — including the clerk’s role with federal SAMS numbers and the accounting/timing of any funds — and emphasized that the MOA and any contract must be reviewed by the town attorney. The council voted to "move forward" with the program on the condition that the MOA be approved by the town attorney and the clerk be comfortable with the paperwork and funding setup; the motion passed with one member recorded as opposing.

Why it matters: 287(g) agreements are sensitive and can be contentious because they intersect with federal immigration enforcement, funds, and local policing authority. The council’s contingent approval begins a process that includes training (40 hours) for participating officers, contract review, and accounting set up through the clerk’s office. One council member said they would not sign anything without town attorney review.