Mount Vernon community demands council pass resolution after ICE detains activist Lelo Juarez

The Mount Vernon City Council meeting on March 26, 2025, focused on pressing community concerns, particularly regarding immigration enforcement and housing development. Community members urged the council to pass a resolution aimed at protecting immigrant rights and ensuring accountability within local law enforcement.

Several speakers expressed outrage over the recent detention of local farmworker activist Lelo Juarez by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Activists highlighted that Juarez was detained while exercising his rights, raising alarms about the implications for community safety and trust. Vanessa Marin, a resident, emphasized the need for the council to adopt the proposed resolution to uphold the city’s values of inclusivity and respect for all residents, regardless of immigration status.

Caroline Bachetto, a friend of Juarez, underscored the urgency of enforcing the Keep Washington Working Act, which limits local law enforcement's involvement in federal immigration matters. She called for concrete actions from the council, including formal education for city employees on the act and mechanisms to track violations. Bachetto criticized the council's reluctance to adopt the resolution, arguing that the community seeks actionable commitments rather than mere statements of intent.

In addition to immigration issues, resident Kevin Moss addressed housing concerns, noting community enthusiasm for growth and development. He urged the council to draft written policies on housing to facilitate this growth, reflecting a desire for more neighbors and a vibrant community.

The meeting underscored a pivotal moment for Mount Vernon, as residents called for both immediate action on immigration enforcement and long-term planning for housing development. The council's response to these issues will be crucial in shaping the community's future and addressing the needs of its diverse population.