The first speaker experienced technical difficulties with the microphone, which led to the public calling for their time to be restarted. In response, Mayor Fred Jung said, “I’ll have you escorted out with one more outburst. We are conducting the business of the people. This is not your house. You don’t just interrupt public comments. They don’t do that to you, you shouldn’t do that to them.”
Amy: I am a resident. I am here to express my concerns regarding the actions of the Fullerton Police on January 22. Early that morning, about a dozen armed ICE agents illegally entered our complex by cutting the chain on the emergency exit. Our complex was not informed of this intrusion until after it occurred. I encountered an ICE agent at 7:33 am who asked if I had seen an armed man in the complex, but I did not respond.
After the ICE agents left the complex, my neighbors and I discovered that the Fullerton Police were working with ICE, in violation of Senate Bill 54 (CA, Sanctuary Law). They admitted to assisting ICE on their social media and later claimed they assisted them that day. As someone who works in K-12 schools, I am alarmed that Woodcrest Elementary shares the street with Highland Pine Tree. Although it’s only two blocks away, walking through our complex takes about five minutes, and the school was not informed of any armed threat in the community.
When I raised this concern with the Fullerton Police Department (FPD), a lieutenant insisted on the phone that it was not protocol to inform the school. When I challenged this, he stated that the incident occurred at 6:00 am, before the school was open. However, I now have video evidence showing that the situation was ongoing after 7:30 am, which is when the schools officially open. While classes may not have started yet, it is disingenuous to ignore the fact that parents and children are actively driving or walking to school around that time.
It is significant that community members, including myself, went to Woodcrest to warn them of the ICE presence, as ICE is well-documented in abducting children to entrap their parents. To my knowledge, the school was never warned of any threatening presence other than ICE that day.
I am also deeply concerned. As I addressed in my earlier remarks, the Fullerton Police did not enforce Senate Bill 627, known as the No Secret Police Act. This act prohibits law enforcement, including federal agents, from obscuring and denying their identities with face coverings. While it has been stated that many federal agents from different agencies were present, I personally do not believe there were any agencies present other than ICE. Some agents were dressed in FBI attire, but I doubt the FBI wears Nike sneakers or American flag masks.
The facts indicate that the Fullerton Police allowed unidentified, heavily armed individuals into our private complex without a warrant and did not inquire about their names or badge numbers, at least not in the video. They also failed to show their identification to us as community members, which is not in compliance with Senate Bill 627. I question the Fullerton Police’s dedication to our community when such injustices occur, especially so close to a school that serves some of the community’s most vulnerable members.
Next Speaker: Thank you for that video. It really helped clarify a lot for us, as we knew very little about the topic. I have a question for Nick Dunlap, since I live just a few blocks away from you. What do you believe the guidelines for ice in our neighborhood should be? Should they wear masks or not? Do you think federal police should enforce fines, or not? Could you please respond to that?
Mayor Fred Jung said, “Madam, please continue with public comment. There will be a period at the end when the council can choose to respond or not, during council comments, so if you would kindly be patient.
City Attorney Dick Jones said, “This is your time.”
Jung said, “I understand you wish for an answer, but that would be up to the Mayor Pro Tem. I can’t speak for him, so please proceed.”
Leonard: Thank you to the police and the City Council for the service you provide to us. Fortunately, I have been living here for a long time because I’m quite old. I heard in your presentation, while speaking to the chief, that you did not receive notification from ICE about any ongoing issues. This bothers me because you should have been informed beforehand about potential problems before someone had to call. Given what I see on television and read in the newspapers, I have become ashamed to be an American citizen.
I am concerned that any assistance you provide, beyond following the exact rules, is helping ICE carry out actions that have resulted in the suffering of others. This is deeply disturbing to me, and your presentation seems to suggest that you are focused on how to provide appropriate service to us, which I appreciate.
Tony: I was born and raised in Anaheim, near the border of Fullerton and close to the 91 freeway. About two years ago, my family and I moved to Fullerton, and I now live in Council Member Ahmad Zahra’s district. Unfortunately, my sister couldn’t be here today, but she shared her recollection of what happened on January 22 near our home at Woodcrest Elementary School, where my brother also lives in an apartment.
On that day, the Police Department’s timeline of events was inaccurate. My little brother is in a creative grade school there—he’s in kindergarten—and classes begin around 7:15 am. The police presence was still evident at that time. My sister called me in a panic after dropping off my little brother across the street. Someone yelled “Migra,” which means immigration in Spanish. This caused my sister to immediately run to the front office. Other parents were also panicking; many rushed back to their cars and left. My sister followed suit and quickly got back in her car, as did many others.
Later that day, when my mother went to pick up my little brother, she noticed that very few parents were waiting outside, which was completely out of the ordinary for an elementary school.
I want to take a moment to imagine the fear experienced by both parents and children when attempting something as simple and responsible as dropping off a child at school. No child should feel unsafe going to class, and no parent should fear detention, deportation, or being separated from their child.
Our local government and law enforcement must do everything in their power to protect and support immigrant families who live, work, and contribute to this city we call home. I urge the City Council to take a stronger and clearer stand in defense of our immigrant communities, to communicate openly, and to ensure that our city is not complicit in spreading fear.
I want to be clear today: I fully support our immigrant communities. I must use the privilege I have as an American to speak up for those who cannot. These individuals are the backbone of our state and community, working long hours in extreme heat to harvest the food we eat, cleaning the hotel rooms we stay in, and washing the dishes at restaurants. They are parents, workers, and neighbors in Fullerton.
Thank you so much for your time. “Sí se puede, y viva la Raza!”
Janet: I have been a dedicated member of this community as an occupational therapist for the past 16 years, serving medically vulnerable children, most of whom are residents. Our office is located on the Woodcrest Elementary campus. I am here today regarding the recent incident on January 22, which has left my coworkers and me feeling unsupported and unprotected, shaking our sense of safety.
In my 16 years on this campus, I have seen how threats were typically handled in the past. If danger was near, we would receive immediate audible notifications from helicopters, and we would take action accordingly. However, on January 22, we were never notified. Despite being on campus at the time of the threat, my coworkers and I remained in the dark. I only learned of the danger right outside our windows through social media.
Our office hours are from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm, which means our clients—children and their caregivers—were walking to and from their vehicles during the time a gunman, along with federal police and armed federal agents, were on the premises. We were left uninformed and unprotected.
I am here today because this situation is not acceptable, and I do not want it to happen again. Emergency protocols are only effective if we are informed in real-time with the necessary details, allowing us to enact our safety measures. We cannot afford to lose the trust we’ve established with our clients, and the way this situation was handled has already put a strain on that trust.
I am urging you to follow through with the necessary improvements to the safety protocols in our notification system. This will enable us to take the necessary steps to protect ourselves, our children, and secure the campus.
Vanessa: I am a resident of District 5 in Fullerton, a trustee for the Fullerton Elementary School District, and a parent in this community. I am here tonight because what occurred in the Woodcrest Elementary neighborhood on January 22 is unacceptable. The families in our community deserve honesty, transparency, and safety. Right now, many families and children are living in fear. They are afraid to go to school, fearful that parents may not be there when they return, and anxious about walking to and from campus. Families are requesting transportation assistance because they are too afraid to leave their homes. It’s not just fear of ice; they also worry about the Fullerton Police Department. This situation is not normal and should never be normalized in Fullerton.
On January 22, masked agents in tactical gear, carrying rifles, were seen walking through a gated apartment complex directly across from Woodcrest Elementary during school drop-off time. In the current climate, such a presence caused panic. Parents were running, crying, and trying to protect their children. I want to clarify that Woodcrest Elementary opens at 7:00 am for early care and serves breakfast before school. Children were already on campus when this incident occurred, and more were arriving as parents dropped them off.
The school principal acted appropriately when she noticed the police presence. She identified herself to an officer, inquired about safety concerns, and was told there was nothing to worry about. She was not informed about the presence of an armed individual, and no lockdown was initiated. Families were not notified, and teachers were left to manage the emotional fallout from students and families who felt abandoned and traumatized that day. Later, we learned that the protocol was not followed. Specifically, I am referring to the protocol that requires law enforcement to notify the superintendent and the school district when there is an armed individual near or close to one of our campuses. This notification is essential for the district to take immediate action, including placing schools on lockdown to protect students and staff.
I appreciate the police chief’s meeting with our district and taking responsibility for the lack of communication, but that is not full accountability. If there were a public safety threat, protocols must be followed every time. If there was not, our community deserves clear and consistent communication, as trust is built through transparency and action. Moreover, actions like this risk creating a climate of fear among school staff, where concerns are left unspoken, undermining communication and trust between our schools and the families we serve.
Yolanda: Yes, I have been told to shut up by members of the audience, and you can’t even be bothered to look at me. I’ve had seconds taken from my time to speak, and you better believe that I will speak up for anyone who wants their time back. You don’t care; you’re not looking at me, and you don’t care about the migrant community here. I know that for a fact. Look at us, Fred. Come on. This is the mayor we have here in Fullerton. He refuses to acknowledge anyone who speaks against him.
I experienced an incident at that school that left me shaken, and I’m still trembling from it. I live about two miles from there. If they were that close to the school, who else could they have targeted? They went after one of the car wash stations and people working in restaurants. I’m scared to leave my house now. I wasn’t scared to leave my house a month ago. I am the widow of an American citizen. I am Canadian as well; my father is American, so I am also a daughter of an American. None of that will protect me. I don’t have $2,000 to even attempt to apply for my American citizenship, and if I try, they might just pick me up at the courthouse during my swearing-in. Fred, you disgust me. You disrespect the entire community. There are senior citizens who need protection from the City Council, and you all didn’t bother. There is a widow living in that senior complex that we used to call a senior housing complex who is being harassed by the management. A widow who can’t leave her house. An immigrant widow, no less. And you threaten me with being kicked out because I spoke up for someone who wanted their time back? You don’t deserve your position.
Next Speaker: Thank you for the opportunity to speak. I appreciate your service. It looks like a lot of work for not much pay. I’m your neighbor; I live in the city of Orange, and after reading about the Defense last month, I felt compelled to come here and speak tonight, even on a work night. I appreciate the video, but honestly, I don’t know what to think. I don’t want to think about our government these days. Things have certainly changed. However, one thing I do know, and many people in this room will agree, is that we do not want ICE in our communities, am I right? Are we better off than we were a year ago? Can you imagine?
Let’s be clear–ICE is not a law enforcement agency; it is an instrument of authoritarian state terror led by a cruel man who does not have our interests at heart. You need to do something about this—this is not in our best interest. I have a message for our Republican friends in this room: As Lincoln famously said, “Public sentiment is everything,” and the tide is beginning to turn. Now is the time to grow a backbone, stand up, and have the moral courage to admit that this emperor has no clothes. We are all being victimized by the greatest fraud in human history. So, think about future generations—the children you will be leaving behind—and consider what their lives and world will be like if the current course continues. Speak up, for the love of God, and admit what we already know. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Diane: I am a parent in the Fullerton School District and a resident of District 5, where the incident involving Highland Pine Tree took place. The district pays for a School Resource Officer (SRO) specifically to ensure that communication and coordination with the police occur. In situations like this, they should have been aware that students and staff were onsite at 7:00 or earlier, based on video evidence, eyewitness statements, and the police department’s own social media posts.
In the video that was shared, the Police Department seems to have failed to meet its contractual school safety obligations and general public safety mission. I would like to take this opportunity to ask the City Council to direct Chief Redis to answer some key questions that the video failed to address.
First, do we know for certain whether there was an armed person at Highland Pine Tree that morning? Was that person apprehended? If there was an armed person in the area, even if they were unarmed and trespassing, why is there video evidence showing ICE and FPD officers casually walking through the apartment complex parking lot and chatting rather than urgently searching for this person? How do we know that person wasn’t hiding? Did anyone search the school?
Additionally, how did the FPD determine that there was no longer a threat? If there was truly a person with a gun hopping fences in the area, why didn’t the FPD continue the search to ensure public safety? You’ve stated that FPD was cooperating or not cooperating with ICE for public safety purposes, but standard public safety protocols were not followed. As mentioned, if police believed there was an armed person anywhere near a school, the school should be notified immediately.
Karen: I will be addressing the council on something quite different. It’s only the second meeting of the year, and we’re already off to a rather rocky start. Neither our mayor nor our Pro Tem was willing or able to attend the first meeting in person. The mayor conducted the meeting remotely from Nicaragua without providing an explanation, and no reason was given for the Pro Tem’s total absence.
It is understandable that many of us, who pay attention to the proceedings here at City Hall, were more than unhappy when Mr. Jung and Mr. Dunlap were once again reassigned to their positions, given their clear lack of commitment and the time and attention required to do the job well. It is no wonder that so many are calling for a change.
Additionally, the arrangement of seating assignments on the dais is rather unusual. While it is not uncommon for the city manager and city attorney to sit with council members, the chosen order is strange, to say the least. The city manager and city attorney are seated together to one side, while the council members sit next to each other, with the mayor in the center. Not only did Mayor Jung choose to ignore protocol—which he often does—but he placed the city attorney and city manager between the council members, keeping himself and his staff grouped together in the middle. This left the two remaining council members at the extreme ends of the dais, which is visually shocking.
In fairness, I considered that perhaps one of our newest members needs assistance in navigating the agendas. If that is the case, it would be better for such assistance to be provided in private before the meetings. That way, all questions could be addressed beforehand, avoiding the appearance that staff was influencing decisions during the meetings instead of the elected officials who are supposed to do so.
Helen: I am a 28-year resident of Fullerton, representing District 2. I would like to address three matters today.
First, I want to discuss council meeting times. Council Member Dunlap, you have mentioned seeing the same 20 to 40 people attending these meetings. I hope to prove you wrong tonight because, to me, this audience looks quite new. I believe that if you were to change the meeting times to a later hour, you would see a more diverse group of attendees. Many out-of-town commuters, like I would have been if I were still working in Long Beach, cannot make a 5:30 pm meeting.
Second, I want to talk about respect. Respect is a two-way street; you receive respect when you give it. As I stand here addressing this council as a member of the community, exercising my right to participate civically, I would appreciate some acknowledgment. A simple act, such as making eye contact, would go a long way. When you ignore me, you also ignore your civic responsibility as my representative.
Finally, I want to discuss the defeated proposal for a $200,000 immigration fund. Fullerton has $30 million in reserves, and $200,000 is a modest amount to help people in our community who are threatened with illegal arrest and deportation. As the daughter of World War II refugees fleeing the tyranny of Russian communism, immigration is a deeply personal issue for me. Whether it involves escaping political or economic upheaval, the need to seek safer locales is crucial. Documented or undocumented, immigrant families contribute significantly to our community’s well-being. It is absolutely unacceptable to arrest residents at work, school, or on the street without due process of law.
Therefore, I urge you to reconsider your decision and establish the $200,000 fund to provide legal aid for detainees and emergency assistance for their families.
Doctor Martinez: I’m a senior psychologist at UCLA, a homeowner in Fullerton, and the parent of two children in Fullerton elementary schools. I’m here tonight, along with many residents, to express my serious concern as a parent and academic regarding local police activity that seems misaligned with community values.
I want to clarify at the outset that I understand you cannot control federal agencies. What I am asking today is for you to clearly define how this city, within its authority, protects community trust, the general welfare, and especially our children. Regardless of your personal views on immigration, your obligation is to protect the welfare of everyone in Fullerton, especially children. This includes not only their physical safety but also their social, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
Currently, real harm is occurring. Parents are afraid to take their kids to school, and families are avoiding parks, libraries, stores, restaurants, and city services. Children are experiencing chronic fear, instability, and stress. Community trust in the police is eroding. This issue is not exclusive to immigrant families or those with irregular immigration status; it affects us all.
These concerns are not abstract; they are predictable outcomes. When local police are perceived as connected to immigration enforcement, that is harmful, reckless, and inhumane; distrust and fear grow. We are aware of state sanctuary laws such as SB54, which seek to provide protection. However, simply stating that you are following the law is the bare minimum. Let’s be honest—this is not leadership.
What families are asking for is clarity, transparency, and reassurance from this council regarding what police officers will and will not do, in alignment with those laws and the values we, as a community, choose to uphold.
I appreciate your efforts to explain police involvement in public safety, and I recognize the complexity of navigating these issues around a disorganized and poorly led federal agency like ICE. However, perceptions matter. When local police are seen as aligned with ICE, there is a direct cost, and it is children who pay the highest price emotionally, socially, and academically.
We understand the difficult position this puts the department in. We also recognize that the police must comply with federal law, but when that compliance conflicts with the department’s mission to serve the community—including schools, neighborhoods, and community organizations—this council has a responsibility to lead.
Fullerton is a community speaking out. We don’t want fear to govern our neighborhoods. A community-based policing philosophy only works with trust, and a fearful community is less safe and less healthy.
These meetings exist so that residents can be heard. Those we’ve chosen to lead should know that when people feel unheard, they don’t disengage—they organize. You should take note when people like me step out from the background to speak up. The community is paying close attention to who is willing to stand with us and who is not.
Next Speaker: I was here last time to address a different issue, but since many people are here regarding immigration enforcement, I’m going to change my topic to that.
We urgently need more leadership in Fullerton. Many people have been harassed by ICE agents, who are often not properly uniformed and do not display badges. It can be confusing—are they police or federal agents? The leadership of this community has an obligation to protect us from this uncertainty.
I’ve written to the council before about this. If we cannot identify someone—especially someone who is armed—how are we supposed to trust them? They could claim to be ICE agents without any visible identification. For all we know, the person we just saw in our backyard with a weapon could actually be an ICE agent who is not in uniform.
I can recognize our local officers because they wear proper uniforms and display their faces clearly. This lack of identification from ICE agents is unacceptable. As a parent with a child who is not yet in school, I am concerned about how these situations are being handled in our district.
I want to remain in this community, and I take a strong stance against ICE’s presence here. That’s all I have for now. No more ICE.
Liz: Everyone, I’m happy to be here. I haven’t attended a City Council meeting in a while because I haven’t felt the need to. I have been a resident of Fullerton since 1987 and have attended many council meetings.
First, I want to thank you all for what you do. Secondly, I would like to congratulate and commend Chief Radus and his officers, many of whom are here this evening, for everything they do for our city.
What people often don’t understand is that ICE is a separate entity. It operates independently from the city of Fullerton, the Fullerton Police Department, the Sheriff’s Department, and the CHP. Chief Radius explained earlier in his presentation that when another entity comes into our city, it is their pursuit and their job. Fullerton’s role was to manage the perimeter to ensure that no one exited while they were present. I commend them for that.
I understand there are concerns regarding whether the school was properly notified. It’s difficult to determine what “proper” notification means. Chief Radus mentioned he or someone else spoke with the Superintendent. If the Superintendent felt it was an absolute emergency, it was also their responsibility to ensure the school was notified. There are multiple factors at play here.
While many people are concerned about ICE not notifying cities, that might be something that can be addressed on a citywide, statewide, or department-wide basis. When ICE conducts operations, they usually deploy a group of vehicles, not just one or two. It would be reasonable for them to arrange to contact the city upon entering that city. Fullerton should have definitely received a call when they arrived.
You could tell by the dispatcher’s tone of voice during the call that the scene was being handled by Fullerton PD, and she was unaware of who was present.
I want to commend the entire Fullerton community, including the fire department and all our first responders. If you have complaints about the Fullerton PD, please reconsider calling them for help during emergencies. They are the ones who will be there to support you. If ICE, the FBI, or the CIA came to my front door and I needed assistance, I would let them in. So, I just want to remind everyone that the PD is the first call you should make in an emergency.
Dana: I’ve been a part of the Fullerton community since 2020. During the last meeting, I expressed my disappointment in how the council demonstrated a general lack of acknowledgment and respect for our community and our opinions. Were there any votes against public sentiment this week?
Like many others, I am concerned about the presence of ICE in Fullerton and the negative impact it has had on our community. As we all know, this nation is made up of immigrants. Immigrants are human beings and deserve the same rights as anyone else. I feel privileged to speak up and take action on this issue. The incident involving ICE and the Fullerton PD has caused significant concern and fear for our safety in the city, as evidenced by the turnout here today. It is our responsibility, along with the council’s, to hold people accountable.
Fullerton is known as an educational community with multiple award-winning schools and universities. What has this incident taught us about our students? How are we caring for the welfare of these children, their parents, and their neighbors?
In response to previous public comments, I would like to acknowledge that we understand ICE is a separate entity. However, we are asking our council and the Fullerton PD to improve communication, protocols, and protection for all members of our community.
I would like to address this to Councilmember Valencia, but it applies to everyone. You mentioned on Facebook that “kind public comments are not disregarded at meetings.” Therefore, I request that you and all other council members listen to your constituents regarding this concern, respond at the end of public comments, and take action to keep our community safe.
As I said during the last council meeting, I urge the council to remember that they serve at the pleasure of the constituents. Let’s work together to improve the city that we all know and love.
Father Kris: We are gathered here as a group called “Fullerton is Our Home.” We have two main reasons for being here today. First, we want to memorialize the individuals who have disappeared in Fullerton over the past year. This situation is not an isolated incident that happened just two weeks ago. Secondly, we are here to present a vision for our city and society that may differ from how many of us currently perceive it. In a time of deep division, we wish to propose a vision where truly everyone belongs.
Let me clarify the name of our group: Fullerton is Our Home. This vision is not unique to us. I was encouraged to hear, during my religious order’s general chapter in Italy a few months ago, that there exists a similar vision—a way for everyone, including those who may disagree with us or may not like us, to feel included. We were reminded that we are all created by the same God, making us all children of that same God, and as such, we deserve the dignity mentioned in the founding ideas of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
This concept is not new. Back in the 1960s, President Lyndon B. Johnson spoke about building a Great Society, and Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned a beloved community, a concept rooted in Jesus’ teaching about the mustard seed growing into a bush where all the birds can find a nest.
Today, we witness people living and working among us who are disappearing, taken away by gun-toting, masked, and unidentifiable agents. We want to remember those who have been taken. For example, on July 13, 2025, at Sam’s Club and Home Depot, located behind Placentia, five individuals were taken away. These individuals had families, loved ones, and unique gifts and destinies, yet they have vanished into nothingness.
Many of us grew up reading dystopian novels, such as “1984” or “The Hunger Games,” which taught us that these realities are deeply wrong. In contrast to the world we currently live in, any of us could disappear tomorrow, and the reason for our disappearance or even murder could be casually dismissed by government representatives as something we deserved.
We want to present an alternative—God’s alternative—where everyone truly matters.
Jennifer: I’m the pastor of First Lutheran Church here in Fullerton. Tonight, we remember that on June 26, 2025, eleven people were taken into custody at a furniture store on Raymer Avenue. I also have a testimony from someone who did not feel safe coming here tonight, so I will read it first in Spanish and then in English.
Quiero pedirles compasión por nosotros y por todas las familias que están sufriendo. No podemos ir a la tienda ni a trabajar por miedo a que nos pase algo. Hay tanto odio y racismo. ¿Qué podemos hacer?
I ask you to have compassion for us and for all the families who are suffering. We are afraid to go to the store or to work because we fear something might happen to us. There is so much hatred and racism. What can we do?
Wayne: I am a 35-year resident of Fullerton. I raised my kids here, and I love this city. However, we’re facing a serious problem. On January 23, ICE took a man into custody at the corner of Orangethorpe and Highland, near Richmond Park. They were wearing masks and had no identification, and their behavior was brutal.
I’m here to discuss this issue and to make a specific recommendation. First, we should consider basic human morality. We are supposed to feed the hungry, provide water to the thirsty, heal the sick, and welcome the stranger. Instead, we have a federal government with a rogue agency called ICE that does the exact opposite when it comes to strangers. They are brutalizing individuals, sometimes unjustly killing them, arresting them, and effectively kidnapping them. This is all immoral and simply wrong.
I’m here to testify that we must do something to protect our civil rights and justice. We need to adhere to the Constitution of the United States. This rogue ICE agency is violating our Constitution and taking away our rights. We need to stand up for those rights.
I ask the City Council to make a specific change: we need to align our city law with state law and ensure it upholds the Constitution. It should be illegal for any federal agent or law enforcement officer to wear a mask while operating in the city. Additionally, if they enter an apartment or house without a warrant, that should also be illegal. They must obtain a warrant, as mandated by the Constitution.
So, I urge you to pass a law now. I want to commend the police; I know you are in a challenging position, caught between federal pressures and community concerns. But I believe we can create laws in Fullerton that respect and uphold our Constitution and that everyone must follow.
Debbie: I have lived in Fullerton for 26 years. Fullerton is our home, a safe place for most of us, but for many in our city, it is not. You’ve heard that 17 people have been abducted by ICE in Fullerton. There were two more abductions on June 17, 2025, at the Fullerton Sam’s Club. I have also been asked to read a testimony from someone who is fearful of speaking in front of you. First, I will present it in Spanish; please forgive my accent:
Justicia en una gran nación: la gente habla de justicia, y yo me pregunto: ¿Justicia para quién? ¿Es justo que a nuestros niños y jóvenes se les prive de su infancia, sus sueños y su paz interior? En lugar de sueños en sus almohadas, se enfrentan a pesadillas y miedo. Por favor, redefinan la palabra “justicia” para mí. Ayuntamiento, ustedes tienen el poder de marcar la diferencia para nuestros vecinos inmigrantes en esta ciudad. Por favor, hagan lo que puedan. Debemos amar a nuestros vecinos inmigrantes y apoyarlos de cualquier manera posible.
Justice in a great nation—people talk about Justice, and I wonder, Justice for whom? Is it fair that our children and young people are robbed of their childhood, their dreams, and their peace of mind? Instead of dreams on their pillows, they face nightmares and fear. Please redefine the word ‘justice’ for me. City Council, you have the power to make a difference for our immigrant neighbors in this city. Please do what you can. We must love our immigrant neighbors and support them in any way possible.
Harry: I live in Fullerton, and I want to start by mentioning that on December 29, ICE was spotted at the Home Depot in Fullerton, where an American citizen was brutally abducted, which has caused great distress. Now, I want to share a story about the silent majority. I registered for the draft in 1967, during a time when tens of thousands of American soldiers were dying in Vietnam year after year. There was a great deal of outrage, especially among people my age, and millions demonstrated against the war in Vietnam. In 1969, I heard President Richard Nixon refer to the ‘silent majority’ who he claimed supported him in continuing the war, even as more Americans and Southeast Asians continued to suffer and die. Ultimately, it did not end well.
I have heard that some people think we are just a minority asking for help for immigrants. I urge you to consider that Fullerton voted 60% to 40% on the purely partisan Proposition 50, which does not bode well for the idea that the majority may support Trump’s ICE policy, one of his least popular measures. There are actions the city can take; we have a police oversight commission that could conduct an independent evaluation of the police’s relationship with ICE. A couple of years ago, our youth advisory committee was established, and last year, a senior advisory committee was formed. Previously, ad hoc committees were created to study homelessness in Fullerton. I encourage you to think about what you can do to address this moral crisis affecting the people of Fullerton.
Susana: On September 18, 2025, a truck full of gardeners was stopped on the side of the road, and the occupants were taken into custody. I am a community organizer for OCCCO, and I am here to read a testimony from a community member. He is a father of a high school student.
(Spoken in Spanish and then in English):
A veces me siento inseguro camino al trabajo y al volver a casa. Al pensarlo, esa sensación se intensifica. Voy al trabajo y vuelvo; todavía no ha pasado nada, y me digo: “Lo logré”. Gracias por su tiempo. Espero que reflexionen sobre las historias de los miembros de su comunidad y consideren las decisiones que toman.
Sometimes, I feel insecure when I’m on my way to work and when I’m coming home. When I think about it, that feeling intensifies. I go to work and come back; nothing has happened yet, and I tell myself, ‘I made it.’ Thank you for your time. I hope you reflect on the stories of your community members and consider the decisions you make.
Vanessa: I’m a Fullerton resident in District 4, and I want to bring to your attention that on December 18, 2025, at Harbor and Chapman, there was one man taken into custody by ICE. Additionally, on January 2, 2026, at Roberta and Gilbert Park, which happens to be just down the street from where I live, another man was taken into custody by ICE. I’d also like to read a statement from one of our community members who doesn’t feel safe to be here and speak for themselves today.
What makes you feel like you belong here? Because of the time I’ve lived in this city, I’ve felt Peace of Mind, being able to walk freely through its streets and having neighbors who are like family. What influences this feeling of belonging in this moment? I feel that just thinking about going out on the street makes me feel unsafe walking or being accepted. In this community, there is a reality that so many of our community members are feeling scared right now. They’re scared to go out, scared to take their children to school, scared to go to work. And that is impacting their ability to provide for their families. And while you may not have the power to. To determine how DHS and ICE act, what you do have the power to do is support our community members, and that’s what we’re asking for. Several months ago, there was a vote taken up about whether the city should provide mutual aid fund for immigrants and for families who have been impacted by ICE activity in our community. At the time, Mayor Jiang, Council Member Dunlap and Council Member Valencia voted to table that conversation. I’m urging you to bring that up again, to put it to a real vote. Listen to the overwhelming support of the community that is asking you over and over again to support our neighbors, to make this a place that is safe and welcoming for all of our neighbors. The community has spoken again and again, and we ask you to listen and to provide this. That we’re asking for.
Elliott: I live in District 5. I am a resident, a father, a pastor, and a husband. On January 24, at Harbor and Berkeley, near one of my favorite restaurants in the city, Tiki Island Grill, a serious incident occurred. One individual, created in the image of God, was taken into ICE custody, which I view as a desecration.
I have a piece from a high school student in our city who is 14 years old. She has given me permission to share her words, and I believe she has an important message to convey:
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for whom? For you. Because it is not for me, people with my skin color do not receive the same justice as others of different colors. Why should I have to pledge allegiance to a nation that does not provide justice for all? Why are only some people granted justice while others are not? Is it simply because they don’t look like you?
People should not have to live in fear of never seeing their family members or friends again. My community should not have to go into hiding to feel safe. We should not be seen as aliens on stolen land, and we should not be torn from our families.
Trump often says at his rallies and through his merchandise, ‘Let’s make America great again.’ However, America hasn’t truly been great because all I see is history repeating itself. When have you heard of families being torn apart, taken away to who knows where, or officials going door to door asking for papers, reminiscent of the Holocaust? So, no, I will not place my right hand over my heart and recite ‘justice for all’ until there is justice for all.”
As the Pastor of Liturgy at my church, liturgy means the work of the people. I invite you, council members, as public servants, to join us in this work. I sincerely hope you view our presence here today as a sacred and holy testimony.
Jason: I’m a resident and pastor here in Fullerton. On January 2, 2026, a man was taken into custody. Then, south of Orange, near Highland or Woodcrest, 98 ICE agents were present at an apartment complex. On January 23, 2026, ICE agents were spotted in a community of houses around Southgate.
We’ve gathered tonight not to accuse anyone but to invite you to listen to neighbors who are too afraid to speak for themselves. One by one, we have named locations in our city—parking lots, intersections, and apartment complexes—where threats are not abstract concepts but real spaces that people experience daily. We planned these comments before the incident at Woodcrest to help you see Fullerton as many of our immigrant neighbors do right now: not as a home, but as a place of constant vigilance, trauma, and fear.
By naming these locations, we aim to bring these stories closer to you, moving them from a distant abstraction to the forefront of your moral consciousness. This way, you can witness the fear, pain, and, importantly, the dignity and humanity of our neighbors whose lives are disrupted without warning, explanation, or care.
We brought candles tonight because light matters. Light signifies that we see you and that you are not forgotten. While federal agents hide behind masks, we choose visibility. We choose to shine a light on what fear tries to keep hidden. These candles also symbolize hope—the belief that our flourishing is interconnected and that a city becomes stronger when everyone belongs.
We are still asking for concrete actions, such as funding for a legal defense fund so that our neighbors receive dignity and due process, as well as mutual aid for families who have lost income and stability because a loved one was taken. We urge the city to follow the lead of others, like Anaheim, which has a website informing residents of where federal agents have been seen.
More than just policy changes, we are asking for a partnership. We want you to collaborate as colleagues—staff, community members, and residents—to co-create ways this city can protect the safety and well-being of those who are most vulnerable right now. It’s time to challenge narratives that label our immigrant neighbors as threats and instead foster policies and practices rooted in belonging.
Steven: I’m a lifelong resident of Fullerton and a commissioner on the Transportation and Circulation Commission. While I originally wanted to discuss transportation, specifically electric vehicle charging, I felt compelled to speak this evening about the actions I have witnessed, not only in our city but also across the country. Some might ask why I feel this way. I am not an immigrant, nor do I work in human rights; my focus is transportation. However, moments like this demand that everyone speak up, regardless of their title or background.
My comments tonight are not directed at anyone in particular; they are simply my thoughts shared with my community. History teaches us something uncomfortable: harmful policies are often justified by the government, and too often, ordinary people remain silent. Local bodies, such as planning commissions, advisory boards, and city councils, have played roles in injustices.
Before zoning and planning were used to enforce segregation, cities passed ordinances that criminalized people simply for being who they were, such as laws against interracial marriages. Had I been born 50 years earlier, I might have been jailed or worse for being gay, something I now take for granted. When I reflect on how these injustices were allowed to grow within society, I arrive at the same conclusion: too many people with some level of influence chose not to speak out.
While I do not pretend that my position on the TCC grants me great power, it does give me a voice, and that carries responsibility. I stand with our immigrant communities, who have come under assault this summer. I witnessed an ICE raid at a car wash, and it was horrifying. I was not at risk, but I cannot imagine what it felt like for those who were. It breaks my heart to know that neighbors feel compelled to carry passwords just to go about their daily lives, or that some believe they will be targeted no matter what they do.
When members of our community live in fear, discussions about stop signs or signal synchronization feel painfully small. I urge all of us, especially those entrusted with any level of influence, to stand up. It will take everyone—regardless of title, role, or nationality—to say that our community deserves safety and dignity. Nothing else truly matters if our neighbors do not feel safe, and from what we are hearing and witnessing tonight, many do not.
This is one of those moments in history where silence becomes a choice, and I believe it is time to choose differently. Chief Radius, thank you for your earlier explanation. One thing you said was, “whether we agree with it or not,” and I think this may be the crux of the problem today. It’s time for the city to take a stand, whether you agree with it or not. Visualization is crucial, so by a show of hands, who wants ICE out?
Next Speaker: Following my email to the City Council, Police Chief Radus sent me an email explaining the incident that occurred on January 22. After I had more questions, I followed up with him as he encouraged me to do. I want to sincerely thank Chief Radus for taking the time to clarify this matter. He was very kind, and I truly appreciated it. I have watched his video multiple times, and I believe he is an honest and honorable man.
What he shared with me and what is presented in the video indicates that the department’s actions were necessary under the law, with specific exceptions concerning ICE, and this was one of those cases. The police responded to a call from a resident reporting a man jumping their fence with a gun. For public safety, they proceeded and encountered federal agents who had been pursuing this individual. The Fullerton police established a perimeter for safety.
I genuinely believe our police department is doing its job. For everyone in our community, regardless of their immigration status, we cannot know if any officer personally disagrees with the department’s policies and how that might unconsciously influence their conduct. I am not suggesting that the officers who responded to this incident acted wrongly. However, when such controversial events occur, complete transparency and thorough investigation are crucial.
I think the Fullerton Police Department and those involved acted with good intentions, and they are extremely limited by law in what they can communicate and do. It is unfortunate that they were pulled into this situation while trying to protect public safety. I know they work closely with the school district. A communication gap became apparent, as people in the apartment were unaware that students were already arriving at school for early breakfast programs, even though school starts at 8:15.
Given the safety concern for the community, I believe the school district and the school itself should have been notified and placed on lockdown until it was confirmed that there was no longer a threat. The police and school district have been meeting to address these issues, and I encourage ongoing discussions with the community about how to improve communication and response in the future.
My request to the council tonight is to allocate funding for legal aid. We need mutual aid for families impacted by ICE enforcement and timely information shared on the city’s website and social media when federal agents are spotted in Fullerton, similar to what other cities like Anaheim are doing. These initiatives are desperately needed now more than ever.
In my previous public comments, I mentioned that not helping when you can be harmful. As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it.” Please help by doing the right thing: agendize and vote to approve these measures.
Joseph: Thank you, Councilman Dunlap, fellow Commissioner Talavera, and Daisy, for being there for the reopening of Lions Field this past weekend. That event should have reflected our community’s gratitude and shared investment in our city. Instead, I was deeply disappointed by the remarks of Council Member Jung. What should have been a unifying moment was turned into a platform for grievances and personal attacks on certain community members, alluding to respecting his donors and a so-called silent majority.
While Council Member Dunlap led with a personal story and appreciation for the community leaders and local teams, the mayor once again redirected the moment towards himself. Moments like these are what leadership is supposed to build. They should foster trust, not erode it. This is especially troubling given the ongoing police and ICE controversy, at a time when community trust is already strained and the public needs reassurance and transparency.
Instead, we hear statements suggesting that opinions and circumstantial conversations are considered facts. We are told that asking questions is both disrespectful and uninformed. Dismissing public concern without a full investigation is irresponsible. There was a missed opportunity to assure the community that we would ensure a complete and credible investigation into what happened. Instead of accountability, community members were talked down to, which does not protect the department, help the chief, or strengthen public trust. It does the exact opposite.
Leadership is not about shutting down questions or demanding obedience; it’s about addressing concerns with transparency and humility, knowing your role, and leading with respect—especially in moments when calm and confidence are needed. Flames were fanned, and our community deserves better.
I would suggest you take your own advice and look into Councilman Dunlap’s form of leadership or consider what you said multiple times during that event and think about resigning in favor of him as mayor.
Jill: I’m a resident of Area 5, and I want to echo the point made by someone earlier about how leader council meetings would be much more beneficial for residents. I’ve traveled around town, and I know many parents who would like to attend but are unable to. On Thursday, January 15, there was an incident at Woods and Valencia in our town. From what I understand, the FPD (Fullerton Police Department) was in pursuit of a suspect who crashed at that intersection. The two suspects exited the vehicle and fled the scene. There was a large police presence just one block from my children’s school. I have two children and a husband who works at or attends Fullerton elementary schools. At that time, a helicopter was circling overhead for about an hour, or possibly longer.
When we arrived to pick up our children from school around 3:45 pm, I watched our principal, Davie Soak, call one officer who didn’t answer, and then a second officer who did answer. She asked them if we should lock down our school. The officer told her, and I’ll quote, “No, we are pursuing a suspect, but there is no threat to the school.” Our principal confirmed that the officer advised against a lockdown. She responded, “But there is a suspect near the school, and you don’t know where he is.” The officer reiterated that there was no threat. After hanging up, our principal instructed our after-school coordinator and theater teacher to lock down the programs to ensure our children’s safety.
At that time, I was quite concerned, but out of respect for the FPD’s expertise, I deferred to their judgment. However, since the incident at Woodcrest and the decision not to lock down the school, I feel this is less of an isolated situation and it is extremely concerning to me as a parent with children in schools. I understand that you’ve spoken with the district, which I appreciate, but I would like to hear specifically how you’re going to ensure that such incidents do not happen again. I worry about sending my kids to school every day, and I trust you and respect your work. I would like to know what measures will be put in place to prevent this from happening in the future.
Council Member Jung, your visible disdain for the people in this room is astonishing, and you should be ashamed.
Next speaker: In addition to the many amazing leaders here working for positive change today, I want to remember someone who is not with us but tirelessly fought for the rights of immigrants—Todd Harrison, who has passed away. If he were here, he would be right beside us, demanding justice. I also want to mention another pedestrian death this month; a pedestrian who had been hit late last year died in the hospital, which is a grim way to start the new year. Meanwhile, our active transportation committee meeting was canceled, despite ongoing public safety threats, for lack of agenda items.
Earlier, someone mentioned feeling ashamed to be an American citizen. While I’m not there yet, I understand where that sentiment comes from. Instead of shame, we should aspire to be rescuers. I often remind myself that America, our country, is still out there, but she is fading into darkness at an accelerating rate. Authoritarian actions, such as ICE raids, are only going to increase, and this is a defining moment. The community is in need of a clear statement regarding where the city and the police department stand.
In evolving situations, like state police invading our cities, we understand that things can go wrong, and you are doing your best in a complex situation. However, we need to know that protocols will be improved to prevent incidents like this in the future. How will our city learn from these events and adapt to the rapidly changing environment? The community is adapting and expressing their needs—please do the same.
We still do not have an immigrant action fund, and the amicus brief for the ACLU lawsuit was never sent. This is not only an issue of dignity for our immigrant brothers and sisters but also a fundamental attack on the very notion of community. The community is like a fabric—when one thread is stretched, we all feel the tension. These are crucial moments that we will all look back on and reflect. Did we defend the America we know still exists, or did we allow the forces of cruelty to prevail? Please choose to do the right thing. The time for “never again” is now. Thank you.
Jasmine: I am a community member here in Fullerton. I want to reiterate something that was said earlier tonight: even when things seem to go perfectly, there is always room for improvement. I was very happy and proud to hear so many community members and leaders tonight demanding that crucial improvements be made.
Robin: I wear many hats. I used to provide meals for the homeless, but before that, I dedicated 21 years to foster care. In that time, I encountered many children who had been taken away from their parents. I want you to think about those kids who are separated from their parents—what happens to them? Where do they go? Are they placed in foster care? Are they ending up in the same situations as their parents?
These children need their parents’ support; they shouldn’t have to face the trauma of foster care on top of what they’ve already experienced. It’s a hard life to endure. I have welcomed many traumatized kids into my home, and those who sometimes don’t even speak the language end up with families who struggle to understand them, their food, and their culture. That experience can be incredibly frightening.
We must open our hearts and make funds available for lawyers who can advocate for these children and their families. Whether it’s helping other parents or older siblings, there’s a crucial need for legal support. It’s important to reflect on your role in this situation.
You become a second set of parents for these children when you take them in. The first parents who loved them trusted you to provide care. You have legal authority over them, which means you are their representation and legal guardian. But many of these kids feel lost in the system, which is a cascading issue that often leads them back to places that are even worse than foster care.
This is a call to action. If these children are sent back across the border, they may end up facing dangerous situations. It’s essential for us to address this and help those in need.
Next Speaker: Good evening, City Council members. My name is Ruth Geyer, and I have been a Fullerton resident since 2001. I’ve also been an employee of the Fullerton School District for 27 years, which has given me the opportunity to wear many hats within the district. I am quite concerned about how the recent situation was handled, particularly in terms of communication.
I must honestly express my disbelief that the Police Department was unaware that students arrive at least half an hour before school starts. This is typically when breakfast is served, and you have done community outreach at the beginning of the school year, often collaborating with Fullerton police to ensure that the community is present. You have been there before school starts, so it’s hard for me to fully accept your messaging. I’ve listened to that email and watched the video multiple times, and I still feel a lingering sense of disbelief and mistrust.
I respect you, Chief Readers. Our past conversations and the work we’ve done together, given my experience as an administrator in the Fullerton School District, have been valuable. I want you to understand my perspective, but I still hold respect for you.
Mayor Jung, I want to address your earlier outburst towards your constituents when you said, “This is not our house.” I would like to remind you that it is indeed our house, just like the White House. I live in your area, and I will be watching your actions more closely because that response was not appropriate. When your constituents are unhappy, you are expected to rise above and respond with dignity.
To conclude, I would like to echo Trustee Vanessa Estrella’s sentiments.
“As a parent, I firmly believe that when it comes to public safety, especially regarding the safety of our children, our families must always come first. I want to thank our school district, counselors, administrators, and staff who stepped up in the wake of this incident and continued to support students and families throughout the following week. Their care, leadership, and commitment are exactly what we need from you.”
Marcy: I have lived in this city for 44 years, and although I don’t have anything new to say, I want to emphasize that while we may not be able to solve the nation’s problems, those problems are certainly affecting our city, and that’s where we can make a difference.
We need strong, ethical leaders who genuinely care about their constituents. Right now, we are in a crisis, and the money should be allocated for the people. When I listened to some of the individuals affected by ICE today, I was shocked by what is happening in our country. It’s truly unbelievable.
I hear about how many people in Fullerton are being abducted, and we have no idea where they go. It’s terrifying. I want to make one thing clear: what we are dealing with is no longer just a political issue; it’s about right and wrong. This sentiment is shared by both Republicans and Democrats.
It’s paramount that we stand up for our community. I’ve been observing leaders across the country, and many of them are doing amazing work. We have incredible people right here, and I truly believe we also have some great leaders. However, we need to unite on this issue and take care of our residents.
I am concerned about the possibility of a secret deal for a detention center in this city. That frightens me. I need to be able to trust you—both the men and women in leadership—and believe that you genuinely have the best interests of your constituents at heart. That’s all I am asking for.
Mary: I have lived in Fullerton since 1975. As I mentioned earlier, the situation we are facing is affecting our community, even though it is a federal issue. Here are some ways that I believe you can help. I propose five ordinances for the city of Fullerton:
1. Federal agents should not be allowed to wear masks and must provide their name and badge number when asked.
2. If federal agents are found to be breaking the law, police officers should be permitted to arrest them.
3. Federal agents must inform the Portland Police Department of their presence in the area. I have recently heard that ICE officers are disguising themselves as workers or protesters to blend in and move about more freely. All agents need to be properly identified, and their uniforms must clearly state their agency. Only police officers are allowed to wear “Police” on their vests or jackets; otherwise, they should clearly display “ICE,” “Border Patrol,” or the name of their respective agency.
4. If ICE is genuinely seeking the worst of the worst criminals, such as rapists, there should be no reason for them to be on school grounds. An ordinance should be passed that prohibits ICE from being on or near school campuses unless they are looking for a specific individual fitting those descriptions and possessing a judicial warrant.
5. I believe that most parents dropping off their kids and the children themselves do not fit that description.
Please consider passing an ordinance to keep ICE away from our schools.
Jody: I’m a professor at USC and an expert in immigration. One of the most profound things we see tonight is the significant shift in public sentiment about immigration—specifically immigration enforcement and transparency in policing. A national poll released last week shows that support for aggressive immigration actions has declined sharply, even among Republicans. Recent YouGov surveys indicate that more Americans now support abolishing ICE than keeping it as a federal agency. This is astounding. Confidence in ICE has dropped significantly, with polls revealing that many Americans believe federal immigration enforcement has gone too far, and their actions are often violent and authoritarian.
These views are not fringe; they represent a clear shift in public opinion and expectations. As we’ve seen this evening, this shift matters locally because voters are now uncomfortable allocating public dollars to enforcement institutions without accountability. Nationally, Congress is increasingly linking funding to oversight and accountability measures; public support now comes with the expectation of transparency and humanity.
This situation is crucial because you will be asking your constituents to support taxes for police in the upcoming election, and many do not want to support a department they believe collaborates with ICE. Even if the police do not directly collaborate with ICE, perception matters greatly. My colleagues and I collect data daily to document ICE activity in this city, which is often violent and heinous.
Immigration, right now, is the litmus test for our democracy. What people are communicating in the community is that the video we saw tonight was selectively edited and likely mandated by Mayor John. Many believe that the video does not truly reflect transparency and accountability. There are significant errors in the FPD’s account regarding the video that were demonstrated here tonight, so we ask you to correct those errors, especially regarding the timeline. Otherwise, community members will suspect that the police are covering something up.
We urge you to build trust by releasing the body camera footage. We ask for accountability to the people who are picking up the pieces every day. It is not too late to support the Legal Defense Fund. By the way, Jamie, your philanthropic fund raised a mere $6,000 for legal support and basic needs, which is not enough for what this community requires. Therefore, we ask you to choose this community over ICE every single day.
Next speaker: I didn’t prepare anything specific, but I want to express concern about the inconsistency between the justifications provided and the department’s response. If there is an armed individual, the department responsible for protecting the public should be the one pursuing them. I don’t think they should hold a perimeter while ICE looks for them, as that’s not ICE’s role. ICE handles immigration enforcement, but the Police Department is sworn to protect public safety, which is its primary goal.
If there was indeed an armed individual, I think everyone understands that the police would need to intervene; however, the intervention seemed lackadaisical and did not convey urgency. Many people have mentioned the start time of the meetings. I would like to point out that Fred, Nick, and former council member Bruce changed the start time from 6:30 to 5:30. Perhaps if you changed it back to 6:30, the “silent majority” that you claim to have might show up to these meetings because, so far, we have yet to see them.
Curtis: I am an activist for the homeless, veterans, Cal State Fullerton students, OCTA bus drivers, singers, and the low-income community. Here are some of my recommendations. Happy Black History Month to everyone.
I propose that our navigation centers and emergency shelters be utilized 24/7, 365 days a year, to assist immigrants with shelter, food, clothing, and a safe place to stay. OCTA bus drivers should be allowed to pick up and drop off the homeless at all 15 emergency shelters in Orange County, including Fullerton. The City of Fullerton Municipal Court should adhere to codes that encompass state, federal, and local laws, including city ordinances.
Furthermore, the City of Fullerton should partner with the owner of the Rancho Lopez Mobile Home Park to…
Z: I became familiar with Fullerton when I relocated here in 1978. I just want to take a moment to acknowledge this community and its citizens. This is my home. February is Black History Month, National Cancer Prevention Month, and also Library Lovers Month. Additionally, February 17, 2026, marks the Year of the Horse for the Lunar New Year celebration.
I am here tonight to express my disappointment that our Mayor Pro Tem, Dr. Charles, was not traditionally promoted to her rightful position as Mayor of Fullerton for 2026. This is the fourth year that Brother Fred Young has served as Mayor of Fullerton, yet I must point out that the condition of our streets has not improved. Brother Fred, it seems you are holding this position for personal reasons or ambitions. However, the city’s deficit spending and failure to balance the budget have become significant issues under your leadership. Our city streets have, for the most part, gotten worse. I hope that in your fourth term as mayor, you will present a plan to balance the city budget and to repair our roads. If you cannot present a plan or program in the next 30 to 45 days, I suggest you step aside and allow true leaders to guide this city.
Jamie Valencia, the bicyclist, has only received a 12-inch white line near Cal State Fullerton for safety. I kindly request that if you cannot secure the curbs and sidewalks in 1800 and 1900 W. Page Ave, you at least ensure the school children have that 12-inch white line for their safety. I also want to note that since our last council meeting, another protester was tragically shot and killed by another American in Minneapolis.
Lastly, regarding the new seating arrangement on the dais, as a resident, I can see the advantages of the additional two seats that will allow the majority of the council to better represent the citizens of Fullerton. The citizens have overwhelmingly opposed both Brother Young and the new Mayor Pro Tem. For those with questions regarding the Fullerton Police Department, I would like to mention that the Chief offers a Citizens Academy. You can attend one night a week for 10 weeks and learn about every aspect of the department. While I am not close friends with the Chief, I am an acquaintance and have a strong line of communication with him. I know he will listen to citizens’ feedback and make the necessary adjustments to improve the Fullerton Police Department.
Eglith: (In Spanish, then English)
En este momento, nuestro país experimenta división, odio y miedo en nuestras comunidades. Esta situación es verdaderamente desgarradora, no solo para nosotros, sino también para quienes albergan opiniones racistas. Hemos estado trabajando diligentemente con la ciudad para fortalecer nuestros vínculos con el Departamento de Policía, animar a la comunidad a denunciar problemas e interactuar con las pandillas locales para ayudar a reducir los conflictos.
Como individuos, debemos abordar este problema con lógica. Los desafíos entre el departamento de policía y nuestro distrito son problemas que podemos resolver juntos como comunidad. Debemos sentarnos a la mesa para discutir y resolver estos problemas para que nuestra comunidad pueda prosperar. Desafortunadamente, figuras políticas como Donald Trump, con su retórica de racismo y persecución contra la comunidad latina, están contribuyendo a la división dentro de nuestra sociedad. Este tipo de política infunde miedo y es contraproducente para nuestra comunidad.
Insto a todos a unirse y trabajar juntos para encontrar soluciones. El Departamento de Policía ha realizado importantes esfuerzos y demostrado compromiso, y el distrito escolar ha sido un fuerte aliado en este esfuerzo. No se trata de política ni de ninguna campaña política; Se trata de Fullerton, nuestras comunidades y nuestras familias.
Hemos trabajado arduamente para evitar divisiones y conflictos, y para evitar señalar a nadie en particular. Durante nuestra reciente visita al Parque Union Pacific, notamos una falta de participación comunitaria, principalmente debido al miedo. Fue desalentador porque hemos luchado durante años, yendo de puerta en puerta y trabajando incansablemente para garantizar que este maravilloso parque sea accesible para nuestra comunidad.
Sin embargo, ahora nuestros hijos están en casa, nuestras familias tienen miedo y ese parque se siente vacío. Nos importa mucho nuestra comunidad, así que unámonos y actuemos para unirla.
Right now, our country is experiencing division, hate, and fear within our communities. This situation is truly heartbreaking—not just for us, but also for those who harbor racist views. We have been working diligently with the city to strengthen our ties with the Police Department, encourage community members to report issues, and engage with local gangs to help reduce conflicts.
As individuals, we need to approach this issue logically. The challenges between the police department and our district are ones we can solve together as a community. We must come to the table to discuss and resolve these problems so our community can thrive. Unfortunately, political figures like Donald Trump, with their rhetoric of racism and persecution against the Latino community, are contributing to the division within our society. This type of politics instills fear and is counterproductive for our community.
I urge everyone to unite and work together to find solutions. The Police Department has made significant efforts and shown commitment, and the school district has been a strong ally in this endeavor. This is not about politics or any political campaign; it’s about Fullerton, our communities, and our families.
We have worked hard to avoid division and conflict and to prevent singling anyone out. During our recent visit to Union Pacific Park, we noticed a lack of community participation, primarily due to fear. It was disheartening because we have fought for years, going door-to-door and working tirelessly to ensure that this wonderful park is accessible to our community.
Yet, now, our children are indoors, our families are scared, and that park feels empty. We care deeply about our community, so let’s come together and take action to unite it.
Next speaker: City Council member Jamie Valencia, my elected official for District 4. I’ve spent the last couple of weeks at Orangethorpe Elementary, Valencia Park, and Pacific Drive, where I spoke with our school leaders, teachers, and parents. They are feeling fearful, and residents in the community are afraid to seek help and services they need due to concerns about ICE and the perceived collaboration between our Police Department and ICE.
Many community members have stated today that they want to see the body cam footage. We urge you, Jamie, to advocate for transparency and to be our voice in the community, standing with immigrants. We are tired; we are here doing the work. Our families need representatives on this council who will genuinely support us. These are your constituents reaching out for your help, and I am calling on you to be a partner.
I hope you will respond to your community members, many of whom are the sons and daughters of immigrants, and that you will listen to their concerns. It is crucial that we come together to find solutions that bring resources to all of our families in Fullerton, whether they are citizens or not. We pride ourselves on being an educational city—a place of belonging and one that continues to welcome families who add economic value. This is what makes Fullerton so great and unique.
I acknowledge the efforts of the police chief; I know you’ve met with Dr. Hamid to work on the communications protocol. I met with him yesterday and discussed some matters further. I appreciate that your department is taking steps, but we still need to see the body cam footage. We need transparency. The public perception is that you collaborate with ICE, which can have dangerous consequences, as we’ve seen in tragic incidents. With 80% of the budget allocated to your department, it is vital that you work to protect and serve without instilling fear in our city.
You’ve heard many concerns expressed tonight, and I won’t repeat them all. Jamie, I hope we can start a dialogue as you represent us in District 4 and in our schools. As Dr. Bailey stated, allocating $6,000 for an immigrant fund won’t make a significant impact—that’s merely five hours of an attorney’s time. I urge the city to come together to create a more substantial immigrant fund as well.
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