Phoenix City Council Seeks 'Transparency Initiative' on Federal Immigration Enforcement

Council directive aims to document potential civil rights violations and impact on city services

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Phoenix City Council has directed city staff to develop policies to guide residents in case the federal government increases immigration enforcement activities in the city. The council's decision comes after the mayor requested a "community transparency initiative" to address growing concerns from residents about how federal law enforcement actions could threaten civil rights and disrupt daily life.

Why it matters

This move by the Phoenix City Council reflects growing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, as cities seek to protect immigrant communities from potential civil rights violations and disruptions to public services. It highlights the ongoing debate over the role of local authorities in responding to federal immigration policies.

The details

The council's directive seeks to establish procedures for collecting data on how immigration enforcement actions affect city services, as well as a framework for documenting information on federal immigration activities that may "violate criminal statutes" or individual civil rights. This comes after the mayor requested the development of a "community transparency initiative" within 45 days to address resident concerns.

  • The Phoenix City Council held its work session on February 10, 2026.
  • The mayor's memo requesting the transparency initiative was sent to the city manager a few days prior to the council meeting.

The players

Kate Gallego

The mayor of Phoenix who requested the development of a "community transparency initiative" to address resident concerns about federal immigration enforcement.

Kesha Hodge Washington

The Phoenix City Council vice mayor who told the vocal crowd during the meeting that their reactions were not helping the council move forward.

Betty Guardado

A Phoenix City Council member who said the council's decision was not about "obstructing federal law" but rather about ensuring the city's resources are used "lawfully and responsibility."

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What’s next

The Phoenix City Council has directed city staff to develop the proposed "community transparency initiative" within the next 45 days.

The takeaway

This decision by the Phoenix City Council reflects the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, as cities seek to protect immigrant communities from potential civil rights violations and disruptions to public services. It highlights the complex and politically charged nature of the immigration debate at the local level.