(3-6-25) According to the Commercial Review at this week’s Portland City Council Meeting…Portland City Council member Ron May asked Portland Mayor Jeff Westlaker about his approach to illegal immigrants, saying that he had heard that Westlake had issues with his approach. The Mayor responded that the city and its police department are required to follow proper guidelines.

Mayor Westlake, Council Member Ron May and Council Member Golden

Commercial Review — Contentious again …Mayor, council member spar over ordinance, enforcement

Council Member Kent McClung commented on the issue, referencing the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.

“We just have to follow the Constitution and we can’t racially profile. I’m not saying that people here illegally have a right to stay, but we also have to be careful that we don’t take away anyone’s rights in the process.”

VIDEO – City Council Meeting 03-03-2025 05:30 PM (18:40 when immigration issue is discussed)

McClung noted that speaking Spanish or having brown skin does not mean that someone is in the country illegally.

Westlake and Council Member Dave Golden voiced their agreement.

The immigration issue addressed was just one of several heated items that were discussed by the Council…the noise ordinance, enforcement of ordinances, what constitutes a religious service and door-to-door sales.

Portland City Council will meet again on March 17th.