Renton, WA – The Renton City Council on Monday night discussed directing staff to develop an ordinance that would place a temporary moratorium on new detention-related facilities within city limits.
The motion, introduced by Councilmember Carmen Rivera and seconded by Councilmember Kim-Khánh Văn, would begin the process of drafting an ordinance to pause the change of use, establishment, or development of facilities connected to detention, transportation, or food services for individuals detained in relation to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Councilmember Rivera noted that the language mirrors what has been used in other cities.
An amendment was added during discussion clarifying that if existing city code already prohibits such facilities, no new ordinance would need to be drafted. That amendment passed unanimously.
Councilmembers shared a range of perspectives while expressing shared goals.
Councilmember Văn said community concerns have been raised in light of developments in a neighboring city. She also voiced concerns about federal immigration enforcement, including cases involving veterans, and said she believes due process violations are taking place.
Councilmember Ryan McIrvin said he supports the intent of the motion but questioned whether Renton’s current code may already prevent such facilities. “We’re in agreement,” he said, adding that he does not believe councilmembers want detention facilities operating in the city.
Councilmember Valerie O’Halloran raised concerns about including references to local law enforcement in the motion’s language, noting that immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility. Councilmember Carmen Rivera responded that the concern involves federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement and how federal operations may intersect with local resources.
Councilmember James Alberson questioned whether the action was preemptive, stating that there is no current proposal for a detention facility in Renton and describing the motion as feeling disorganized.
After adopting the amendment, the council voted unanimously to move forward with the motion as revised. The discussion comes as the City of Tukwila recently approved a temporary suspension on new detention facilities at its most recent meeting and other cities consider similar proposals as the federal administration expands its immigration operations.