Portland Council passes immigration ordinance, extends City Manager contract

The Portland City Council voted to adopt a new ordinance restricting local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, rejecting a proposed amendment that would have provided legal protections for staff facing coercion. The council also approved a six-week extension of City Manager Danielle West's employment agreement to allow for further contract negotiations.

Key points

• Council passed Order 180-2526, an amendment to the city code regarding immigration enforcement, by a vote of 7-1.
• The council rejected Mayor Mark Dion's proposed amendment, which sought to excuse employees from disciplinary action if they allowed federal agents access under duress or administrative warrants.
• Public commenters, including representatives from the ACLU of Maine and the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project, urged the council to reject the mayor's amendment, arguing it could be exploited by federal agents to intimidate staff.
• The council approved a first amendment to extend City Manager Danielle West's contract by six weeks, as the current agreement expires on May 14, 2026.
• Several proclamations were adopted, including recognitions for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives Day, Provider Appreciation Day, and National Police Week.
• The council approved a consent calendar of orders, including designations for the Pride Portland Parade and the Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon.

Next steps

• The council will continue negotiations on amendments to the City Manager's employment agreement before the end of June.
• A housing proposal is expected to be brought to the Housing Committee at the May 19 meeting.

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