Balcones Heights council holds ICE vote after evening rally

The Balcones Heights City Council left its decision on the 287(g) partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement undecided on Monday. No final vote was taken during the session, leaving the status of the federal immigration enforcement agreement unresolved.

The postponement followed a gathering of residents and politicians outside City Hall on Hillcrest Drive earlier that evening. The group sought to pressure local leaders to reconsider the city's participation in the federal program before the council made its move.

Rebecca Flores, who heads the Bexar County Democratic Party's Immigration Committee, stood among dozens of attendees. She argued that the agreement risks eroding trust between the community and local police. Flores noted that 80 percent of Balcones Heights residents are minorities, a demographic she believes is most vulnerable to immigration questions during routine police interactions.

"This is so harmful to their community," Flores told KSAT. "Eighty percent of the people that live here in Balcones Heights are minority."

Texas Sen. Jose Menendez also addressed the crowd, calling the partnership a mistake that could deter residents from reporting crimes or visiting local businesses. Menendez stated that he views the arrangement as a major deterrent to public safety. He added that his office is located at Wonderland of the Americas, a property owned by the city. He said he may reconsider his lease if the city maintains the agreement, stating, "I cannot be in a city that allows its law enforcement to become immigration officers."

The debate follows an August appeal from state and federal lawmakers who asked six Bexar County cities to review their 287(g) deals. Balcones Heights was named alongside China Grove, Hollywood Park, St. Hedwig, Sandy Oaks, and Von Ormy. As of Monday evening, none of the six cities had altered their decisions to work with federal immigration authorities.

Under the 287(g) Task Force Model, local officers receive training and authorization to perform specific immigration duties while on routine patrol. ICE states the program strengthens cooperation between federal and local law enforcement. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security notes that participating agencies may receive reimbursement for officer salaries, benefits, overtime, and equipment.

Adam Castillo, a resident advocate, urged the council to prioritize community concerns over financial benefits. "Hopefully the council will listen to us and side with us instead of the money," Castillo said. Other community members spoke during the meeting, reinforcing the arguments made by Flores and Menendez.

KSAT attempted to interview the mayor and other council members during the meeting but was unable to reach them. The city also did not provide a written statement in response to the newsroom's request. The offices of U.S. Reps. Marc LaHood, Carrie Isaac, and Chip Roy had not responded to inquiries submitted prior to the council discussion.

The council will continue to weigh the implications of the partnership for public safety and local resources. The final decision on whether to rescind the agreement remains pending.