County Leaders Consider Emergency Declaration Concerning Illegal Immigration To Tap Into State Funds

Fayette County Commissioners Court is considering a possible emergency declaration concerning illegal immigration.

Fayette County Emergency Management Coordinator Angela Hahn said The Schulenburg Police Department (SPD) requested the declaration, which would allow them possibly receive funding through state efforts to combat illegal immigration.

Schulenburg Police Chief Troy Brenek said his department recently joined Operation Lone Star, a multi-jurisdictional task force focused on border security. Brenek said his department works closely with the Hallettsville Police Department and the Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office. He said those two agencies invited SPD to join the task force.

“It’s about assisting in operations with different departments on border security and dealing with illegal immigration,” Brenek said. “It also leads to the seizure of a lot of narcotics.”

Brenek said his department has already participated in one operation near Floresville, which led to a narcotics arrest.

If Fayette County declares an illegal immigration emergency, Brenek said his department could receive additional funding that could be used for equipment, such as new vehicles, and overtime pay.

At their meeting last Thursday, Jan. 23, Fayette County Commissioners Court deferred action on the emergency declaration. Hahn said the County Attorney’s office was reviewing the matter.