Coral Gables first city in county to assist federal agency.

Coral Gables Police Chief Ed Hudak defended his decision to sign an agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a March 11 City Commission meeting. While acknowledging that the agreement was not mandatory, he stated it aligned with his oath to uphold the Constitution and enforce state and federal laws.

The decision has sparked controversy ahead of the city’s April elections. Several residents spoke against the agreement during the meeting, and demonstrators gathered outside with signs opposing deportation efforts and the city’s involvement.

By signing the agreement, Coral Gables became the first city in Miami-Dade County and one of the first in Florida to participate. The agreement provides officers with specialized training and grants them authority to assist in immigration enforcement.

“This agreement does not turn the police department into an ICE sublet,” Hudak said. “Our officers will not go door to door looking for undocumented immigrants.” However, he acknowledged the challenges of navigating a politically charged issue.

“Nothing forces us to do this,” Hudak said. “But I believe we need the ability to work with our federal partners. My concern is what happens if we don’t.”

Hudak addressed concerns about funding, noting that the city might not be reimbursed for assisting ICE without the agreement. However, he emphasized that officers would not profile individuals or conduct random immigration status checks.

“I stand by my department,” he said. “We do not profile, and this agreement will not change that.”

Although Hudak did not publicly discuss the decision with commissioners before signing the agreement—consulting only with the city manager and city attorney—commissioners appeared to support the measure.

Commissioner Melissa Castro reassured residents that the police department’s primary focus remains public safety. Vice Mayor Rhonda Anderson praised the department’s professionalism but did not directly address concerns about the agreement.

Mayor Vince Lago acknowledged the complexity of the issue. “We are walking a tightrope between federal and state government,” he said. “This country was built on immigration, and we must be respectful and thoughtful.”

Despite these reassurances, many residents opposed the decision.

“I am deeply concerned with the 287(g) agreement,” said Juan Cuba of the Miami Freedom Project. “This was a voluntary decision, not required by law.” He warned that ICE’s deportation orders contain errors and could disrupt the community.

Attorney Alana Greer expressed similar fears. “It pains me as a resident to see Coral Gables take such an extreme measure,” she said. “Our officers should not be deputized as ICE agents.”

Greer also cited legal and financial risks associated with increased immigration enforcement. Samuel Martinez, a retired FBI agent, questioned whether the decision aligned with the city’s mission.

Outside the meeting, Books & Books owner Mitchell Kaplan voiced concerns to local media. “It’s horrible to imagine that people might be afraid to visit their own consulate,” he said, referencing his bookstore’s proximity to the Colombian consulate.

The debate over Coral Gables’ agreement with ICE reflects broader national tensions over immigration policy. As the city prepares for elections, the issue remains a focal point for residents and officials alike.