The December 18, 2024, Regular City Council meeting in Soledad focused on community safety and the city's response to immigration enforcement. The meeting began with discussions about the formation of an ad hoc commission aimed at addressing these issues on both local and statewide levels.

Council members emphasized the importance of creating an informational safety net for residents. This would allow community members to seek guidance on where to turn for help if they encounter immigration agents. The city manager highlighted the need to ensure that the city remains uninvolved in enforcement actions, reinforcing that federal agencies are responsible for immigration law enforcement.

Council member Santiago Sanchez raised several questions regarding the legal implications of immigration agents operating within the city. It was clarified that while agents can come to the city, the city is not obligated to engage with them, particularly in non-criminal matters. Furthermore, it was confirmed that city employees cannot be compelled to assist federal agents in enforcing immigration laws, aligning with both city and state policies.

Sanchez also proposed the idea of partnering with local organizations, such as Lideras Campesinas, to host public forums aimed at educating the community about their rights and available resources. The council expressed support for this initiative and discussed the potential for establishing a committee to facilitate ongoing engagement with community groups.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to providing support and information to residents regarding immigration issues while maintaining a clear boundary between local governance and federal enforcement actions. The council plans to explore partnerships and community engagement strategies in the coming months.