District 10 Councilmember Raises Concerns with Resolution

Published on March 05, 2026

District 10 Councilmember Raises Concerns with Resolution Targeting Federal Detention Facilities

SAN ANTONIO (March 5, 2026) – Councilmember Whyte today voted against a resolution directing City staff to develop code and policy changes targeting the construction of detention facilities within San Antonio city limits. While proponents framed the measure as a land use decision, Councilmember Whyte was direct in assessing it:

“In my opinion, this resolution is immigration policy dressed up as zoning policy. The Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution does not allow this Council to obstruct federal authority through local zoning code.

“At its core, this resolution asks City staff to spend time and taxpayer dollars developing code changes that federal law will ultimately override. Immigration enforcement is an exclusively federal function, and no local ordinance can supersede that authority. Directing staff to pursue a potentially futile effort is not responsible governance. It diverts City resources away from issues where San Antonio can actually make a difference for its residents.

“Local government must operate within its proper legal lane. Using our zoning code as a political instrument where federal authority is involved sets a dangerous precedent, exposes San Antonio to unnecessary and potentially costly litigation, and ultimately accomplishes nothing. The right venue for immigration policy is Congress, not City Hall.”