Salem City Council unanimously adopts resolution to protect immigrant residents

The Salem City Council unanimously adopted a resolution Tuesday reaffirming the city’s commitment to protect immigrant residents and reduce fear of federal immigration enforcement.

Councilor King introduced the measure, which states that the City of Salem does not ask for residents’ immigration status and will not permit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents access to nonpublic areas of city facilities without a judicial warrant. "No person living, visiting, or working in Salem should ever fear calling public safety personnel for assistance," King said while reading the resolution.

The resolution directs continued review and strengthening of local policies and procedures in collaboration with city departments, Salem Public Schools and the Salem Police Department. Councilor Davis, who supported the resolution, said the item was "not just words on paper" and urged the council to consider restoring stronger language from a 2017 ordinance in future deliberations.

Debate included references to recent community meetings with the mayor, police chief and school superintendent and multiple public comments urging proactive measures. The council voted by roll call, 10–0, to adopt the resolution; the clerk will send copies to state leaders cited in the resolution.

The vote followed extended public testimony from residents who described fear and the need for preparation and community communication systems if federal enforcement activity occurs locally. Councilors said the resolution is a first step and signaled plans to revisit and possibly codify additional protections and procedures.