County of Monterey ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
Sonia M. De La Rosa
COUNTY ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
168 West Alisal St. 3rd Floor
Salinas, CA 93901
831 755 5115
cao-admin@countyofmonterey.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2026
County of Monterey Takes Lead Regional Role to Challenge Santa Clara
County ICE Facility
Board of Supervisors Backs Multi-Jurisdiction Amicus Brief to Protect Immigrant Communities and Local
Autonomy
SALINAS, CA — Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to immigrant communities, the County of
Monterey has taken a chief regional leadership role in rallying a massive multi-jurisdiction coalition
against the federal government’s planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in
neighboring Santa Clara County.
Working in close coordination with Public Rights Project, which authored the amicus brief, Monterey
County spearheaded efforts to organize and secure a powerful coalition of 26 signatory cities and
counties from across the Bay Area and Central Coast. The dynamic regional show of solidarity
underscores the deep, shared concerns over federal overreach.
The brief argues that the establishment of the ICE facility disrupts critical local operations, erodes
community trust in public health and law enforcement, and undermines local zoning and governance.
The Monterey County Board of Supervisors offered overwhelming, unified support to authorize this active
legal intervention, cementing the county’s position as a fierce defender of regional civil rights.
“Monterey County will not stand by silently when federal actions threaten the safety, stability, and trust
of our families,” said the Monterey County Board of Supervisors Chair, Wendy Root Askew. “Our Board
voted with overwhelming conviction to lead this effort because protecting our immigrant neighbors is not
just a Santa Clara County issue; it is a regional priority. By uniting 26 cities and counties, we are sending
an undeniable message that local autonomy and community trust cannot be sidelined by federal
enforcement mandates.”
The amicus brief unites a diverse cross-section of Northern California, showcasing immense regional
alignment. Local signatories joining Monterey County’s coalition include:
● County of Santa Cruz
● County of San Benito
CountyofMonterey.Gov● City of Salinas
● City of Watsonville
● City of Santa Cruz
● City of Hollister
● City of Gonzales
● City of King City
● City of Soledad
● City of Monterey
● City of Marina
By organizing this coalition alongside Public Rights Project, the County of Monterey ensures that the legal
arguments presented to the court reflect the collective voice of millions of Northern California residents.
Media Contact
County of Monterey Communications Bureau
Nick Pasculli, Bureau Chief
Email: PR@CountyofMonterey.Gov
Phone: (831) 796-3094
About Public Rights Project
Public Rights Project helps local governments protect civil rights. We represent cities and counties
in court, train government lawyers, and activate a national network of local leaders to respond to
emerging threats. Since 2017, we’ve worked alongside local government officials in all 50 states to
support communities and people’s rights.
Thank you County of Monterey for your courage.