Meeting Summary
Present: 4-Aguilera-Hernandez, Escobedo, 3-Soto, 2-Flores
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At a glance
Proclamation Honoring Joseph Glenn Alexander
- Mayor Patino presented a proclamation honoring the first line-of-duty death in the Santa Maria Fire Department.
- The victim's daughter accepted the proclamation while a department representative discussed historical safety measures.
Resolution Supporting Immigrant Residents
- City Manager Rollins presented a resolution intended to express support for immigrant residents and affirm state law compliance.
- Discussion included proposed amendments regarding city resources for federal enforcement and staff training requirements.
- The Council voted to adopt the resolution as presented without incorporating the suggested amendments.
Closed Session
- City Attorney Watson provided a report concerning instructions for Item 3A regarding property APN 121-224-037.
- Negotiators were directed to return specific instructions to the other party involved in the matter.
Full summary
City Council Meeting Summary
- Date: February 3, 2026 Location: City of Santa Maria
Closed Session Report
- City Attorney Mr. Watson provided a report regarding Item 3A. Instructions were provided to the agency's negotiators concerning property APN 121-224-037 to take back to the other party.
Proclamation: Joseph Glenn Alexander
- Mayor Patino presented a proclamation honoring the life and service of Joseph Glenn Alexander, recognized as the first line-of-duty death in the history of the Santa Maria Fire Department. He suffered a fatal heart attack on January 22, 1969, while operating a fire engine. His daughter, Wanda Acquistapache, accepted the proclamation. A representative from the fire department spoke regarding Alexander's service, noting historical changes in firefighter health advocacy and safety measures following his death and the death of another engineer, Alvin Newton.
Public Comment
- The public comment period covered matters within the Council's jurisdiction, with a significant portion focused on immigration enforcement.
- Immigration and Ad Hoc Committee: Numerous speakers urged the Council to establish an Immigration Ad Hoc Committee. Proponents requested the committee explore actions such as submitting Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following arrests, allocating city-owned space to nonprofit organizations providing support services, and establishing "ICE-free zones" on city property. Speakers cited concerns regarding community fear, family separation, and the impact on schools and local trust. Several speakers referenced actions taken by neighboring cities.
- Support for Law Enforcement: One speaker expressed support for ICE, police, and fire departments, emphasizing the importance of arresting criminals and criticizing rhetoric related to fear and immigration status.
- Mobile Home Housing: One speaker representing the Rancho Buena Vista Mobile Estates requested action on mobile home rent stabilization and prevention of senior park conversions, alongside comments on immigration.
- Police Department Statement: Chief Williams addressed the public, stating that the Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) enforces state laws and does not enforce immigration laws. He confirmed officers do not ask about immigration status and are trained on applicable state laws, including the Values Act (SB 54). He noted communication with federal agencies regarding surveillance had ceased.
Consent Calendar
- The Council reviewed the consent calendar. A motion to approve the items was made and seconded. The motion passed.
Adoption of a Resolution Expressing Support for Immigrant Residents of Santa Maria
- City Manager David Rollins presented a resolution intended to express support for immigrant residents and affirm compliance with state law.
- Discussion: Council Member Soto commented on the resolution's language, suggesting it lacked clarity regarding the prohibition of city resources for federal enforcement and staff training on state laws. She proposed amendments to explicitly state that no city funds, personnel, or facilities would be used for federal immigration enforcement and to mandate training for city departments interacting with the public. Council Member Aguilera, the sponsor of the motion, stated the intent was to foster unity and support for neighbors. Mayor Patino expressed concerns regarding the city's limited authority over federal matters, referenced past experiences with gang violence in the community, and stated a preference against sanctuary city status. The City Attorney provided clarification regarding the procedural requirements for amending a motion versus the original resolution text.
- Action: A motion was made to adopt the resolution. The motion was seconded. After discussion regarding the proposed amendments and procedural steps, the Council proceeded to vote on the resolution as presented. The motion passed.
City Manager Report
- City Manager Rollins reported on upcoming agenda items for the next meeting, including a quarterly report from the Chamber of Commerce, the disposition of several buses and equipment, and a generator purchase.
Council Member Reports
- Council members provided oral reports on meetings and events attended during January. Activities included participation in the League of California Cities, the Boys & Girls Club, the Police Council, various board meetings (CATA, Economic Alliance, Investment Committee), and meetings regarding homelessness and street vendors.
Adjournment
- Council Member Soto requested the meeting conclude with a recognition of individuals who died in ICE custody or due to ICE actions in 2026. Mayor Patino adjourned the meeting.