Bay City Commissioner to Introduce Updated Welcoming City Proposal

Mayor says public should see legal guidance before any vote on resolution

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The immigration debate has reignited in Bay City, Michigan as city commissioners prepare to once again consider a proposal to make the city a "welcoming city." 7th Ward Commissioner Christopher Runberg plans to reintroduce a resolution on the matter at the next city commission meeting on February 16th, but Mayor Christopher Girard says the public should first see the city attorney's legal opinion on the potential impacts and liabilities before any vote.

Why it matters

The debate over whether Bay City should become a "welcoming city" has been an ongoing and divisive issue in the community. The mayor believes the city should carefully consider the legal guidance before taking any action that could potentially put the city at risk.

The details

Last year, the city commission approved a welcoming city resolution, but Mayor Girard vetoed it. This year, Commissioner Runberg plans to reintroduce a new version of the resolution. The mayor says the city attorney will provide a legal opinion on the new resolution, which he believes the public should review before the commission votes on it.

  • The new resolution language is expected to be available on Wednesday, February 11.
  • The city attorney's legal opinion is expected to be released by the commission meeting on Monday, February 16.
  • Commissioner Runberg plans to introduce the resolution at the February 16 city commission meeting.

The players

Christopher Girard

The mayor of Bay City, Michigan who vetoed a welcoming city resolution passed by the city commission last year.

Christopher Runberg

A 7th Ward commissioner in Bay City who plans to reintroduce a resolution to make Bay City a welcoming city.

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What they’re saying

“I don't personally believe that the commission should take any action at all before seeing a legal opinion, just because it would put the city in jeopardy.”

— Christopher Girard, Mayor (wnem.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.