Formal resolution is latest in a series of actions the Board has taken to mitigate the local impact of the national illegal immigration crisis
The Board of Douglas County Commissioners adopted a formal resolution today in support of President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming plans to use federal immigration and customs enforcement for the safe and lawful deportation of immigrants living illegally in the United States. The vote was unanimous.
“We want to be very clear. We support legal immigration,” said Douglas County Commissioner Abe Laydon, Board Chair. “We don’t support illegal immigration, which often harms our legal immigrant community the most. This resolution is about the safety and welfare of our hardworking taxpayers, including those who come to enjoy the quality of life in Douglas County through the proper legal channels.”
The vote affirms Douglas County’s status as a non-sanctuary county, standing alongside state and local governments (including Castle Rock) across the United States who have pledged a commitment to and resources for the incoming administration’s efforts to solve America’s immigration crisis.
“With public safety as our top priority, we want the President-elect to know that Douglas County is standing out from the crowd in Colorado – in support of his policies,” said Commissioner George Teal. “This illegal immigration crisis has harmed local communities for far too long.”
The resolution reaffirms the County’s support for the lawful presence of foreign citizens in the United States and formally opposes those who use their positions to hinder actionable solutions to the many problems arising from illegal immigration. Douglas County will, therefore, actively oppose the laws, officials and institutions that further exploit immigrants and victimize U.S. citizens.
“As a Board, we swore an oath to uphold the United States Constitution and protect the health, safety, and welfare of our community. It’s an oath we take seriously and live daily,” said Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle. “Illegal immigration creates safety concerns, including for migrants, who frequently become the victims of crime and abuse.”
The resolution also requests President-elect Trump’s immigration policies be implemented throughout Colorado. The complete resolution can be found online.
Since 2023, the Board has taken many steps toward effectual immigration reform. This is the eighth action taken by the Board. Others include:
2024:
- A lawsuit filed on April 15, 2024, challenging two state laws preventing local governments from cooperating with the federal government on matters of immigration.
- A March 2024 extension of the Public Health Order implemented by the Board of Health in December.
- The emergency adoption of an ordinance in March 2024 to prohibit the driver of a commercial vehicle from stopping and unloading passengers in unincorporated Douglas County other than at planned, scheduled and documented destinations.
- A letter to Denver Mayor Mike Johnston requesting the repeal of two sanctuary laws.
- A letter to the Metro Area County Commissioners organization in support of expeditated employment.
2023:
- A December 2023 Public Health Order by the Douglas County Board of Health setting forth requirements for sheltering migrant persons in Douglas County.
- An October 2023 Resolution affirming that Douglas County is not a sanctuary jurisdiction.
According to recent data, about 45,000 migrants have arrived in the Denver Metro area since December 2022, with a cost to taxpayers of $350 million. For context, Douglas County’s 2025 Budget for all county services including public safety, roads, human services, parks, open spaces and more is $608.6 million.
Your County. Your News. Get it first.
Be among the first to receive news as it happens. Subscribe to our online news push, and select your specific news focus and delivery preferences. Visit the Live Town Hall page and register for Town Hall notifications to ensure you are contacted to participate in future community conversations about topics important to you. Both services are free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. And don’t forget to follow Douglas County on Nextdoor, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Sign Up Now!