Chula Vista votes to condemn immigration enforcement tactics, fly flags at half staff

The Chula Vista City Council approved a resolution to condemn aggressive federal immigration enforcement tactics on Monday, joining a growing regional response to what officials called unconstitutional practices that have led to deaths and eroded community trust.

The resolution, passed by a 4-0 vote with Mayor John McCann absent on U.S. Navy Reserve deployment, specifically targeted “Operation Metro Surge” in Minneapolis and Minnesota, where enforcement actions have sparked widespread protests and legal challenges.

“This is not a choice between enforcement and safety. That’s a false dilemma,” Deputy Mayor Cesar Fernandez said during the special council meeting. “A community where residents are afraid to call for help or participate in civic life is not safer for anyone. Public safety depends on legitimacy, trust and accountability.”

The meeting’s 26 speakers reflected deep community divisions, with residents voicing their support and opposition to the item. Those in opposition largely voiced concerns about public safety, adherence to federal law and immigration enforcement policy, while supportive comments addressed federal immigration crackdowns and the deaths of U.S. citizens Rene Good and Alex Pretti by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

Resident Greg Martinez questioned the political ...