POLL: How Do You Feel About the 'Sanctuary Town' Proposal in Arlington?

ARLINGTON, MA — While the language of the proposal has not yet been ironed out, a proposed warrant article that would designate Arlington as a sanctuary town has been unanimously supported by the Arlington Board of Selectman.

Last week, the selectmen voted to co-sponsor the warrant article for April's town meeting, which would formally declare Arlington a 'Sanctuary Town', which commonly means that local law enforcement will not have a role in federal immigration activities. However, the language presented to the Board of the Selectmen indicated that the resolution will not prevent law enforcement from investigating or charging someone for a crime or a legal infraction.

Town officials agreed to co-sponsor the article, and have the Arlington Human Rights Commission and Town Counsel Doug Heim would work on the formal language of the article prior to Town Meeting in April.

There was little word of opposition at the Board of Selectman's meeting, but many have taken to social media to oppose the move.

The designation has become a hot topic nationally due to an executive order from newly-minted President Donald Trump which threatens to withhold federal grants from sanctuary communities. During the meeting, Town Manager Adam Chapdelaine says that the town receives approximately $5 million in federal funding. The Arlington Advocate reports that the town received over $6 million in federal funding in fiscal year 2016.

With federal funding at risk, many have come out in support as well as opposition of the move. Patch wants to know what you think of the proposal. You can let us know by filling out the poll and giving your opinion in the comments section below. Additionally, if you wish to voice your concerns through a letter to the editor, you can do that by clicking here.