Whittier City Issues Statement Defending Legal Approach to Immigration Ordinance Proposal

By Rebecca Canales, Whittier 360 News Network

WHITTIER, CA — The City of Whittier released an official press statement on July 15, 2025, defending its recent actions regarding a proposed ordinance targeting federal immigration enforcement operations within city limits. The statement was issued in response to public criticism and pressure from outside legislators who accused the city of inaction after a contentious council meeting held on July 8.

During that meeting, Councilmember Mary Ann Pacheco introduced a proposed ordinance that would require federal immigration officers to wear identification and prohibit the use of face coverings such as masks while operating in Whittier. Rather than vote on the item immediately, the council followed state-mandated legislative procedures by voting 4–1 to place the item on the agenda for formal discussion at the next meeting, scheduled for August 12.

Mayor Joe Vinatieri emphasized the need to comply with the Brown Act, California’s open meeting law, which prohibits voting on unagendized items. “The City did exactly what was requested when the proposed ordinance was brought forward,” he stated. “We must follow the Brown Act, so to suggest that the City Council refused to take action is a misrepresentation of the request that was made."

The city’s press release further explained that the ordinance, if enacted, could potentially conflict with federal supremacy. It noted that the U.S. Supreme Court has consistently ruled that local governments cannot regulate federal agencies, referencing the principle established in McCulloch v. Maryland.

Critics, including U.S. Rep. Linda Sánchez, State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, and LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, had demanded the immediate adoption of the ordinance without analysis or input from the city attorney or the Whittier Police Department. The city's statement counters this pressure, affirming that such input is essential to determine the city's legal authority and avoid exposing Whittier to potential lawsuits or federal retaliation.

“As elected officials, we must work together for the good of all those who elected us,” the statement said, underscoring the city’s responsibility to act lawfully and transparently.

The Council directed staff to analyze the draft ordinance, review public comments, and present a legal and safety assessment at the August 12 meeting. Councilmember Fernando Dutra originally proposed the motion for staff review. Pacheco voted against it, expressing frustration with the delay and insisting that the Council act immediately.

A recent community poll conducted by Whittier 360 found that only 15% of residents support bypassing the usual legislative process to enact the proposed ordinance. The remaining majority favored a careful review with input from city officials and legal experts.

The City’s press release aligns closely with Whittier 360's earlier reporting, which emphasized the legal and procedural limitations the city must navigate when responding to federal immigration issues.

The ordinance and related concerns will be revisited at the next Whittier City Council meeting on August 12, 2025.