Balcones Heights Council Withholds Vote on ICE Deal After Protest

The Balcones Heights City Council did not reach a final decision on whether to rescind its partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under the federal 287(g) program on Monday. The delay comes after community members gathered outside City Hall on Hillcrest Drive to pressure leaders to reconsider the agreement.

Rebecca Flores, who leads the Bexar County Democratic Party’s Immigration Committee, joined Texas Sen. Jose Menendez and dozens of other residents at the demonstration. The event followed a call to action in August from state and federal lawmakers who asked six Bexar County cities to review their 287(g) agreements. Balcones Heights was named alongside China Grove, Hollywood Park, St. Hedwig, Sandy Oaks, and Von Ormy.

Under the 287(g) Task Force Model, trained local officers perform specific immigration enforcement duties during routine police work while under ICE oversight. The federal agency states the program strengthens cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

Flores expressed concern that the agreement could erode trust in local police, particularly among residents who fear being questioned about their immigration status. She noted that eighty percent of Balcones Heights residents are part of minority groups.

“This is so harmful to their community,” Flores said. “Eighty percent of the people that live here in Balcones Heights are minority.”

Sen. Menendez argued that the partnership could discourage people from visiting local businesses or reporting crimes. His office is located at Wonderland of the Americas, a property owned by the city. He stated that he may reconsider his lease if the city continues with the agreement.

“I think it’s going to really be a huge deterrent,” Menendez said. “I think it’s a mistake. I think they should stop.” He added, “I cannot be in a city that allows its law enforcement to become immigration officers.”

Residents also raised concerns about the financial incentives for participating agencies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security notes that eligible agencies may qualify for reimbursement for officer salaries, benefits, overtime, and equipment stipends. 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. The council attempted to speak with the mayor and other members during Monday’s meeting but was unable to do so. A request for a written statement was sent to the city. As of Monday evening, the other five Bexar County cities named in the August appeal had not changed their decisions to work with federal immigration authorities.