Title
Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Sign a Letter to the United States Secretary of State Conveying the City of Olympia’s Consent to Welcoming and Resettling Refugees
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter conveying to the U.S. Secretary of State that the City of Olympia consents to welcoming and resettling refugees.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve a resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter conveying to the U.S. Secretary of State that the City of Olympia consents to welcoming and resettling refugees.
Staff Contact:
Mark Barber, City Attorney. (360) 753-8338
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item.
Background and Analysis:
On September 26, 2019, President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 13888, stating that the policy of the United States of America in resettling refugees into American communities is to cooperate and consult with State and local governments, to take into account the preferences of State governments, and to provide a pathway for refugees to become self-sufficient. The President alleged that these policies ensure that refugees are resettled in communities that are eager and equipped to support refugees’ successful integration into American society and the labor force.
After issuance of Executive Order 13888, Governor Jay Inslee sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo, affirming that the State of Washington consents to welcoming and resettling refugees into the State’s communities. Governor Inslee also reserved the right to challenge the validity of Executive Order 13888’s requirements in the future.
As a local jurisdiction within the State of Washington and the capitol of Washington State, the City of Olympia must also indicate its consent to the welcoming and resettlement of refugees under the U.S. Department of State’s Reception and Placement Program pursuant to Executive Order 13888. Previously, the Olympia City Council passed a Resolution declaring the City of Olympia to be a sanctuary city for immigrants and refugees. The letter consenting to welcoming and resettling refugees required by Executive Order 13888 is consistent with the Council’s prior resolution in support of immigrants and refugees.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Unknown
Options:
1. Approve the Resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign a letter consenting to the welcoming and resettling of refugees within the City of Olympia as required by Executive Order 13888.
2. Modify the letter authorizing the Mayor to consent to the welcoming and resettling of refugees within the City of Olympia.
3. Do not approve the Resolution, which will result in the City of Olympia being unable to qualify to accept refugees under the U.S. Department of State’s Reception and Placement Program pursuant to Executive Order 13888.
Financial Impact:
Unknown
Attachments:
Resolution