Select Committee on Federal Administration and Policy Changes

The Select Committee on Federal Administration and Policy Changes convened its first meeting of 2026 to address three critical items related to Seattle's response to federal immigration enforcement activities. The committee unanimously approved Resolution 32194 to strengthen data privacy protections for city residents accessing services, received comprehensive briefings on the city's federal response preparations, and heard from Seattle Police Department leadership on their immigration enforcement protocols. The meeting opened with heated public testimony reflecting deep community concerns about federal immigration raids, particularly following recent incidents in Minneapolis where individuals were killed during ICE operations. Public commenters demanded stronger city responses, including shutting off surveillance cameras that could aid federal agents and implementing more aggressive intervention policies. Council Central Staff presented Resolution 32194, which reaffirms that city staff cannot require disclosure of immigration status for services and requests comprehensive reviews of data collection and sharing practices. The resolution passed 9-0 and heads to full Council on March 17. Councilmember Saka noted the underlying 2015 privacy principles need updating to match current best practices like GDPR standards. Mayor Wilson's office provided updates on $4 million in community-advocated funding for immigrant services, installation of over 650 "Stand Together" signs on city property, and coordination with other jurisdictions facing similar challenges. The administration emphasized steady, measured leadership while centering immigrant and refugee communities most affected by federal enforcement. Chief Barnes presented SPD's directive issued after the Minneapolis killings, outlining officer protocols when encountering federal immigration operations. The directive emphasizes peacekeeping, de-escalation, medical aid, and documentation while clarifying that SPD does not assist federal immigration enforcement. Officers are required to intervene if they witness excessive force by any law enforcement, per state law.