POUGHKEEPSIE — The Dutchess County Legislature has unanimously passed a resolution opposing a proposed federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in the Town of Chester, Orange County, about 55 miles away.

The non-binding resolution, approved at the legislature’s Monday night meeting, cited concerns over due process, transparency, and potential negative effects on public health, infrastructure, and overall community stability if the facility were to be built.

Legislature Chairwoman Yvette Valdés Smith said the vote sent “a powerful and unified rebuke of federal immigration policy. I was proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand in solidarity with Orange County in opposing this facility and to reaffirm Dutchess County’s identity as a welcoming community,” Valdés Smith said in a statement. “While federal leaders fail to live up to the ideals enshrined in our Constitution, this body voted to recognize the rights and dignity of all people, and will continue to resist any effort to violate the liberties which define our nation.”

Legislator Chris Drago (District 19) echoed those concerns, saying the county does not want an ICE mass detention facility or increased ICE activity.  “When law-abiding Dutchess County residents are abruptly taken by ICE, the harm extends beyond the individual, causing trauma to children and families and the destabilization of local businesses. Our priority is public safety, which means all our neighbors are safe in their homes and communities, able to travel without fear, work, and raise their families,” Drago said.

Several residents addressed the legislature, thanking lawmakers for their stance against the proposed facility.


Original article
Add as a preferred source on Google