KEY WEST, Fla. – To the sound of boos and frustration, Key West commissioners voted four to two on Tuesday to enter into a 287(g) agreement.
It’s a formal agreement with the U.S Government on immigration enforcement.
The public comments stretched nearly three hours, with an only-in-Key-West musical serenade included, as residents filled overflow rooms and packed the lobby of Key West City Hall.
Last week, the city voided the agreement that had been signed in March because it was executed without the full commission.
The Florida attorney general then sent a letter to the commissioners, threatening the city with criminal penalties.
The 287(g) agreement strengthens partnerships with local law enforcement, but some argue language in the agreement makes it optional for cities to sign on, not mandatory.
Many at the meeting wanted the city to postpone a decision.
That did not happen.