A recent split 3-3 vote at a Fort Myers City Council meeting has caused national headlines after failing to pass an agreement with ICE that would train Ft Myers police to act as federal immigration officers. Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson expressed concern, frustration, and disappointment over the vote, stating that it would have increased safety for citizens by allowing certain officers to arrest undocumented immigrants for civil warrants. However, some council members questioned the impact of the policy, specifically in relation to potential racial profiling concerns. The vote has put millions of dollars in grant money at risk for the city, including a federal housing grant. Anderson believes that the outcome may impact city projects and has received backlash from top conservatives. He also highlighted the need for a better pathway to citizenship for those who deserve it. The decision has sparked emotional debates among council members and members of the community, with uncertainty surrounding the next steps. As of now, it is unclear whether they will wait until the next council meeting on April 7 or call a special meeting to address the issue further. The article also mentions that Sen. Rick Scott’s office has reached out to the council members who didn’t vote in favor of the ICE agreement.
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