South Texas Mayors Urge Transparency Amid Federal Immigration Operations

Staff Report

EDINBURG TX – The South Texas Alliance of Cities (STAC), a coalition of regional mayors, has issued a joint statement expressing concern over recent federal immigration enforcement actions carried out by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in the area.

In the statement released June 12, the mayors clarified that local law enforcement agencies are not participating in the federal operations and that city governments were not notified in advance. The coalition cited growing concerns among residents and small business owners over the disruptions caused by the actions.

“We have heard from local business owners and community members who are understandably concerned about the disruptions to their daily lives and livelihoods,” the statement read. “Our responsibility is to advocate for the residents and businesses of our cities and ensure their voices are represented.”

The mayors called on federal authorities to improve communication and coordination with municipal leaders to reduce confusion and foster trust within the community.

The statement is supported by the following mayors:

Mayor Adrian Gonzalez, City of Weslaco

Mayor Javier Villalobos, City of McAllen

Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza, City of Mission

Mayor Norma Sepulveda, City of Harlingen

Mayor John Cowen, City of Brownsville

Mayor Victor D. Treviño, City of Laredo

Mayor Ron Nirenberg, City of San Antonio

Mayor Ramiro Garza Jr., City of Edinburg

The South Texas Alliance of Cities reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, economic stability, and open dialogue with federal partners.

Source — South Texas Alliance of Cities.