Locals vs. illegal aliens
In November, Farmers Branch, Texas, passed an ordinance requiring apartment renters to show proof of citizenship or residency, and also declared English the town’s official language. Parumph, Nev., went a step further, passing a law fining residents who display the flag of another country unless it is flown under the American flag. Other local governments are considering laws that punish businesses that hire illegal immigrants and measures that allow local police to enforce immigration laws. American City & County asked readers of its weekly e-mail newsletter if local governments should take their own steps against illegal immigrants. Below are some of the responses:
“Given municipal responsibility for public health and safety, the costs of which are paid on a local level, it is appropriate that the city, town or village enact laws that minimize the burden on taxpayers.”
— Pete Speer, president, MFCS, Buffalo Grove, Ill.
“Fair and equal rights are a good thing, but I believe we’ve taken this way too far. Some towns, cities, counties and states have felt compelled to pass ordinances and laws that seem strong and give them that warm and fuzzy feeling. The bottom line is if the federal government does not offer the security that citizens feel they need, local governments will take steps to increase the level of ‘security’ that the feds don’t seem to be providing. To come here and then ask — in some cases demand — change should never be acceptable. We need to focus on everyone reaching our shores becoming citizens or legal permanent residents, and if that isn’t something they desire, send them home. When I came to the United States, I accepted the change that came with it.”
— Jeff Allen, Fire Marshal, Irmo Fire District, Columbia, S.C.
“Local governments should do whatever they can to deal with the problem of illegal immigration. Since it is obvious the federal government is not able to deal with it, then the local units of governments must do what needs to be done. The best government is the one closest to the people. If the people in the community feel there is a problem, then it is up to them to solve it.”
— Eileen King, Riley County treasurer, Manhattan, Kan.