The City Council of El Cajon convened on January 14, 2025, to discuss a resolution concerning the cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding community safety and the potential economic impact of immigration enforcement.

During the discussions, council members expressed a desire to protect the community while navigating the complex landscape of immigration policy. One council member suggested revising the resolution to clarify that police would only cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in cases involving serious crimes. This proposal aimed to alleviate fears that local law enforcement might indiscriminately detain individuals, which could disrupt local businesses and harm the economy.

The council acknowledged the challenging position of local governments, caught between federal mandates and state laws that discourage cooperation with immigration enforcement. Members emphasized that the city does not intend to create immigration policy but rather seeks to comply with existing laws while prioritizing community welfare.

The council agreed to send the resolution back to staff for further refinement, aiming to strike a balance that addresses both legal obligations and community concerns. The outcome of this discussion reflects ongoing debates about immigration at various government levels and the unique challenges faced by municipalities like El Cajon. Further developments on this issue are expected as the council continues to deliberate on the resolution.