Fremont mayor: 'I vote no'

I was nervous as I entered the meeting tonight. So much law enforcement, metal detectors, and even news reporters. So many people, all with their own beliefs, all firmly believing that they were in the right. It seemed to me I was the only one there who just wasn't sure. The only one there still searching for the answer(s) if there were any to be had.

I didn't leave all of a sudden understaning what the right thing to do would be. My mind is still open to being presented with logical, fact based arguments from both sides.

What I did come away with, though, is a reinforcement that for all the divisiveness in the community right now, overall, Fremont is still a community that cares.

I was unable to secure a babysitter for the evening but still wanted to hear what folks had to say. I was nervous about having my baby there, not only because of the emotions running high on both sides, but also, I didn't want to disrupt anyone else's ability to hear. The folks I sat next to were awesome! They could have chosen to be rude, given me dirty glances, or even ask how dare I bring a child to a city council meeting. But while I was worried about disrupting others they were interested in assuring me that it was ok.

Even though I made every attempt to stay in the auditorium, when I realized that being there would disrupt the ability of others to hear I moved into the hallway. I thought being out there I might at least catch some of what was being said.

While out there, another mother and I started talking. She was obviously against the ordinance. We had differing views but I found that we were able to have a civil conversation. Each of us able to voice what we thought without making it personal. Even though we appeared to disagree on the facts and points of the issue, not once did I hear "Well since you don't agree with me you're just a lazy white racist." and not once did she have to hear "Well all you Mexicans... (insert any of the numerous racist remarks seen on the posts concerning this issue)."

I know this is long but the point is that even in a time such as this where it would appear that we are so divided we have to remember that it's a choice. We can choose to be emotional, irrational, and hurtful or we can choose to approach the issues with an open mind and respect for one another. Even if we never all agree (which we won't) we can choose to disagree in a manner that reminds me why I choose to keep living in Fremont.

I've been a citizen of Fremont for 40+ years and I'm proud of our City Council for addressing the issue and getting our community, state and others across the country talking about this issue. But I'm even more proud of the NO vote on this ordinance. Thank you.

My suggestion to the Mayor and Council is that the City Council meeting should be limited to the residents of Fremont, since this is a Fremont issue. There were Fremont residents that could not attent the meeting due to the attendance of people from other cities.

I believe with all my heart that members of the City Council knew that they were going to suspend rules and have the final reading of the ordinance tonight before they even walked through the door.

What a shame. Many folks who could not make it tonight's meeting would have had also liked to have an opportunity to present their views.

At least they could have had the decency to just come right out and say to people beforehand that this would be their final opportunity to be heard.

No wonder so many in the community have such little confidence in our City Council. If they can't even be upfront and honest about a second reading in one night, how can we expect them to be honest about anything else!

I wish a print of the Ordinance, however, thank you council for at least considering the ideals that you Have. I know meant in your heart and mine you wish to remove illegal Imigrants and bad people, even gangs and gangsters. Good luck with all of that. as in protecting women and children from being harmed by people not abiding by the law. Didn't want to pay prison money or Courts for bad people. Nice thought for today's world. It is a different world, political correct doesn't protect your children and women, it is being politically correct. Thank you, it was a nice statement to make.

"Skip" Edwards what else could we expect from a grown man who still allows himself to be called "skip" another cowardly action by a half rate mayor another reason Fremont should have nominated Scott Schaller. I applaud the courage shown by Charlie Janssen, Bob Warner, Mary Marsh they at least have the willingness to stand up for what is right

Was there a special "is there a seat left for me?" number to call? Guess I didn't get the memo.

I was one of many who didn't get let in until balcony seating was approved. Later when I asked, I was told that everyone who had been waiting had been allowed in.

So exactly who didn't get in due to people from other towns taking their seats?

I must say Congratulations Fremont for commendable behavior at tonights meeting. There are always 2 sides to every story, we are not always going to agree. But being able to disagree without disruption is something to be proud of. I went to the meeting not sure where I stood, somewhere in the middle I guess. I thought both sides had good and bad points. As the night wore on I found myself more againist the proposal than for. I agree like most others that something has to be done. Let's just make sure it is the right something!

After attending the city council meeting tonight I was very disappointed. Crowds of Hispanics were gathered at the entrance to the High School, with their babies and children to monopolize the seating in the auditorium. We honesty felt like we were outnumbered and had to fight our way in. Babies cried and cell phones went off but nothing was done to correct the problem. One Veteran was escorted out for saying something, but when one of the Hispanics was caught clapping she was just instructed to stop. It seems like we should rename this town of Fremont to maybe "Little Mexico".I feel like I need to remove my American Flag that I put out each day and replace it with a Mexican flag. I wonder if I can get one at
Wal-mart tomorrow? Our system is broken and our city will soon be following suit. I wonder how long our fancy new Hospital will stay out of the red? We need more anchor babies. Cheers rang out when the mayor(?) gave his deciding vote. Calls were being made immediately, probably to fellow relatives to "Come to Little Fremont. You will be safe here.!!!!"
Maybe it is the Federal Government that needs to be sued for not enforcing their own laws that they themselves made. This has been a Sad Sad Evening for Fremont, NE.

I wasn't able to attend but thanks to KFMT I was able to listen to the meeting on the radio.
I think this ordinance was badly drafted and doomed to failure. I look forward to seeing what our Mayor has in mind to deal with the situation.

Why would it surprise anyone that the council decided to ignore(suspend) their own rule of order? They were told to nip this in the bud by the people most interested in keeping Fremont a low-wage town. Both Ex-Dir's of the Chamber of Commerce and Development Council had interviews published lambasting the proposed ordinance with falsehoods and innuendos over the weekend. Most media coverage falsely confused many points of the whole issue. There would have been no danger to Fremont's coffers because the financial backing was offered to fight it in court; which would have been highly unlikely because it was modeled after other cities' regulations that had already withstood the test in federal courts. The only elected official that did the right thing is Bob Warner, the rest found an easy way to capitulate to their masters. The voters deserve to be heard on this!

I just returned home from the city council meeting. After listening to 79 people for 3 hours, I know I was physically and emotionally drained. Which is why I was so surprised to hear the request by the city council to vote to suspend the 3rd reading of the ordinance to allow the council members to discuss their thoughts and opinions about the issue.

Within a short amount of time the opinions were finished and the vote was being cast. It was a split vote and Mayor Skip had the option of casting the deciding vote. I could tell by the tone of his voice that Skip too was frustrated and tired of the federal government not doing their job and wanting to do something to "fix it". I could hear in his words how Skip took a lot of care, prayer and reasoning in making his decision to vote "NO". I believe the best comment that Skip and several other people suggested was to create a community task force (made up of local and state members) to discuss and create possible solutions to the illegal immigration issues and take those ideas to the federal government and encourage them to finally enforce the laws already established.

I am sure there will be many people angry with Skip's vote, but I believe that he was doing what he thought was best to protect the city of Fremont, the tax-payers/ homeowners and future generations.

I am very proud that the local government was willing to openly discuss such a nationally heated topic and the peaceful behaviors the public used at the meeting.

I was for the ordinance and accept that it failed. I am proud of the mayor and ALL council members. They took a stand and it is probably best that this failed. i think much good will come from this. I like the idea of bringing people together in order to discuss illegal immigration. thank You council fro bringing this discussion.

Well now… I hereby change my name from NEGOP to NECONSERVATIVE

Fremont now has an excellent understanding of its leadership, should you find any.

"I'm bound by the law, too," Edwards added. Well Skippy, which law is that? The laws that have been on the books for 20+ years to ensure the people’s protection agaisnt illegals, against crime, to secure our borders, and to protect our nations soverignty? Or, was it the ‘law dejure’ that you were bound by?

“The mayor said he consulted with Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning and other attorneys in considering the ordinance.” Really? Is this the same Jon Bruning that made the following statement when running against Flackey Hagel? “Unfortunately, Chuck Hagel’s vote gives new life to a bill that the people of this country have soundly rejected,” said Bruning, a 2008 Republican candidate for Hagel’s Senate seat. Bruning said he supports improved border security and opposes any proposal that would grant amnesty to the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants already living in the United States. This was reported by the Lincoln Journal Star.

Again I ask ‘mayor’, which law were you bound by? My suggestion to you is to either ‘grow a set’ or step down. You have handed OUR community over to the first step of its demise.

Liberalism = Socialism = Communism

John Anderson, Gary Bolton, Scott Getzschman and Jon Gilfry seem to be apart of the liberal left extremism that has locked its jaws on our society. This is great news. We now know who to vote out of office to clean our community of this liberal disease.

Charlie Janssen, Scott Schaller, Mary Marsh and Bob Warner has shown both the integrity and fortitude necessary to fullfil their duties as public servants. I salute each one of you for boldly standing for the protection of our community, and for the security of our childrens future.

We must continue to remind ourselves that this is a LEGAL issue and not a RACIAL one. The liberal left will continue to play the ‘race card’ to further their socialistic agenda. It would seem as though the GOP is now supporting the ‘race’ issue as well to continue their pandering to the ‘fat cats’ of our state. In other words – money.

The grandstanding of hispanics at the meeting was not surprising. Yes, I said ‘hispanic’. Oh my, a racist! I did not see illegal Irish, Pols, Slavs, or Muzzies there, did you? It happens to be that the illegal immigration LAWS are affecting the hispanic community the most. That does NOT make it racial, but it does give them the opportunity to use RACE as the smoke screen to defeat US!

Fremont, if you cannot clean up your own house, just how in the world do you think you can make a difference in the White House?

A sad day indeed for our community.

Are we breaking a Federal Law now?

Are we going to be Charged with a Crime?

Are we, the legal citizens of Fremont Nebraska going to be charged with Aiding and Abetting illegal aliens (harboring)?

People of Fremont, You just gave permission to the entire city of Fremont to break the law.

Go Skip! I'm delighted you took the time to do the research and determined that this is indeed a federal issue.

Skippy is like so many politicians who fear doing the job they were elected to do , to serve the legal American citizens of his town not the interests of illegal aliens and those who employ them .

This is an outrage. Not only have they insulted the people of this town that are here legally. They have actually given the green light and made it acceptable for these people to continue to break the law. This is exactly the spineless act that I expected from the so called leaders of this community. Gang activity is on the rise in this town and many of these illegal's are to blame. If they refuse to change the route things are going, you can expect the decent percentage of the people in this town to leave. Skip edwards needs to step down and let someone with a backbone lead. Anything mexican gang related that happens to someone good in this town, is now on the heads of these people that voted against this bill. What, is Hormell paying you all off to well to do what's right?

Skip...you did the right thing. Tough situation -- but how can the elected leader of our community go against all the basic principles we stand for -- inclduing following the law.

Thank you for your leadership.

To Disappointed

I will have to say that I was somewhere in the middle on this issue after taking a look at it and seeing the pros and cons of both sides. But taking a look at your post and hearing others that have your position on this, it seems that you were/are motivated by nothing than pure hatred. Talking about the hispanics and their babies crowding the doorways and crying, the comments about the flag. I will have you know I was at the meeting, and noticed a few people having to walk around white/American kids that were playing in the aisle, guess they get a free pass to be in the way.

I have to wonder if maybe a part of the reason this did not get passed is because it was being orchestrated by people that are so narrow-minded and hateful, thus not able to see the big picture.

We don't go to Mexico and take their jobs, why should they get to come here and take ours. Our ancestors did it the right way, what changed? They have no right to be here, the illegal ones anyway. I have friends that are here legally and that's great, they've taken the time to get their citizenship and pass the tests, they pay taxes just like I do. The illegal ones are giving all hispanics a bad name. I'm all for getting rid of them and making it illegal for employers and landlords to rent to or employ them. We need to do what we can to preserve our rights and freedom, we can't allow our country to be overrun my illegals. Put some good snipers at the border, maybe that'll take care of the problem.

How is it that if enough people do something that is illegal it is ok? Illegal is illegal and has nothing to do with race, sex or age.

Scott Getzschman had his mind made up prior to the proposal being finalized, and made it known to all medias that he was voting against the proposal. I hope the people who voted him in, and all other Fremonters remember his cowardliness and join me when I say that if Scott Getzschman cannot serve Fremont any better than this, I'll be damned if he will be serving me pizza any time soon!

It may have saved us taxes but I disagree with the decision. All I hear is 'they saved us taxes' or, 'it's not our issue, it's a federal problem'.....that's great, but NOBODY is solving this problem.

I'm tired of seeing legal citizens at the YMCA who are paying full price for a membership while there are 'others' who get in on a fraction of the price and don't use the equipment but use the time to look at the women on the treadmills.

I'm tired of knowing that our police staffing needs to be increased because of the crime rate hike that started about the time that Hormel cut wages. Thanks for that Hormel.

I'm sick over the fact that illegal immigrants are giving birth at FAMC for a fraction of the cost of what the fine, legal citizens of Fremont have to pay.

Let's make this an even playing field and have the vote again, illegals pay the taxes, pay full price for a Y membership, pay full price for medical attention, make an effort to be a part of the existing community and not creating a rift.

I don't mind paying taxes for people who contribute to the community, but when all of the money made is being sent South rather than being used in Fremont it's unsettling.

Thanks for saving me taxes Skip and board, none of you will get my vote and thankfully I don't have to waste one on Edwards.

I was at the meeting and I want to know why most of them that spoke against the ordinance were from out of town or out of state? We were sitting in the back with children crying, screaming and a lot of the time we could not hear what was going on. Those child should not have been allowed in that meeting, they were disruptive and nothing was done to stop them. From where I sat it looked like more people were in favor of the ordinance or at least some kind of ordinance. (Fremonter) Those opposing from Lincoln, Omaha and elsewhere should not have had a say in this, it was not there town or issue. Can this be put on the general election ballad and let the people of Fremont vote to decide? If so what does it take to do it? Also I am so disgusted with Skip's performance, taking a vote when many Fremonters were planning on going to the next meeting was wrong. I urge all registered voters who were in favor of the ordinance to vote write in for Scott Schaller in the fall. Do we need anymore of Skips lack of backbone and disregard for Fremonters? Remember if we do not get someone in there other than Skip when he retires and I am betting that will be soon, we will be stuck with Bolton. I for one think that one spineless mayor for Fremont is enough. Vote Schaller in the fall!!! Many people had said before this meeting that the council was pressured to take this to a vote last night. Shows just how right they were. My hat is off the Charlie, Scott, Mary & Warner for voting the way their constituents wanted. It took guts & backbone for these people to listen and vote the way the people of Fremont wanted. Not like the spineless other four. I am embarassed to have Getzchman as our council man from our ward. Hey Scott, how many illegals work for you and how many do you rent to? I for one am going to go to Fortenberry's meeting and ask why he has done nothing to help solve this problem and then I am going to campaign vigorously to see Schaller as our next mayor. Skip it's time for you to go!!

The fact that this community has alot of uninformed people who are resistant to change is no surprise.The fact that elected leaders would put our community under the spotlight on such a divisive issue that according to all legal consultants is a federal issue is troubling. The costs this would have had to our city, not only to try to enforce it, but to address the lawsuits that were guaranteed to come and would have almost certainly overturned it,should have been considered by the 4 who voted yes. This is an election year and Mr. Warner and others who feel strongly about this should be out looking for and trying to lobby senators, representatives, and even a president who will address this issue. But driving a wedge deeper into our community is not the way to handle it.

surprise.. surprise.. surprise! who would of thought the ordiance wouldn't be passed??? let them break the law-- by being here ILLEGALLY--while AMERICAN citizens can go to jail for shoplifting food to feed their families... or steal the medicines they might need!

This vote shows who on the city council is in bed with Hormel, Fremont Beef, and special interest groups.

Did you hear the people who spoke at the left side of the city council vs the right of the council members.

The group on the right had actual verafiable statistics documenting the distention of the mexican culture towards Americans, the diseases the Illegal Aliens have infested our country with, the crime that comes with the Mexican culture, and the cost to our honest tax paying citizens.

The group to the left had no verafiable and beneficial statistics for having Illegal Aliens in Fremont let alone America. Take the translator for Fremont Area Medical Center. She claimed to represent FAMC and several other organizations. Organizations that take our tax dollars, supply Illegal Aliens with a free ride and keep her in an enabling job.

It must be nice for those on the city council to turn a blind eye and get their kick backs when they don't have to live on the side of town that has degenerated to where it's not safe to walk anymore.

I for one will be boycotting any businesses that these down voting council members own and support and I encourage others to do so.

Charlie Janssen, Scott Schaller, Mary Marsh and Bob Warner are winners in my book for showing that they are actually doing there jobs as public servants, these others John Anderson, Gary Bolton, Scott Getzschman, Jon Gilfrey and "Skip" Edwards need to be removed from city council as they aren't doing there jobs as public servants.

This isn't about race, it is about breaking the law setforth by our federal government but nobody enforcing it. Yes I agree that the ordenace should pertain to all illegal aliens and not just the hispanic but the hispanic population in Fremont has grown over the last 10 years so the smoke screen and the racist card that is being played isn't just, just smoke!

After reading the results of my former hometown vote on this matter I am not suprised. Evidentually the word ILLEGAL has no meaning anymore.

The people who voted against, do you own properties that your are renting out and if so who are your tentants?

America it is time to clean houseof officials unwilling to do their job and the people who are here illegally.

It is my understanding that if my car is parked illegally on the street and is hit by another car, they are not liable for damages because it was parked illegally. How far does this go?

People better wake up, it may be to late already but we better try to fix this problem.

Skip, I think you should SKIP the rest of your term.

I was in line at 6:05, among the crowds of Hispanics and their children. I was very disappointed to see so many children taking up seats, seats that should have been for legal Citizens of Fremont, such as my Dad, who has served his Country, and continues to serve in his Community. My Dad was unable to attend the meeting due to the crowds of Hispanics and their children. How many Hispanics were illegal last night? How many illegal Hispanics are using our tax dollars to require our teachers to take extra time with them? How many illegal Hispanics are using our tax dollars for medical care? When my medical dollars are increasing, I find it hard to accept our Mayor voting down this issue. Crimes have increased, deseases of the past have increased, and will continue to increase. I applaud Janssen, Schaller, Marsh and Warner for listening to us, the people they serve, not illegal aliens and the employers who employ them! I also witnessed a Veteran escorted out for saying something, but when the Hispanic woman sitting across the isle clapped, the police officer only instructed her to stop...this is what it's going to be like people! Stand up for your rights, stand up for what our ancestors fought for, stand up for what your Father and Grandfathers fought previous wars for...our right to uphold legal issues! This is what it's all about LEGAL, not RACIAL!

It's a sad day for Fremont. Half the city council and the mayor would rather pandor to criminals than protect the legal residents of Fremont. When is the mayor going to propose changing the name of Fremont to Frexico? Thanks for making Fremont a sancuary city.... It's time to recall the mayor and those members of council that voted against this ordinance. For those of you on the council that supported the ordinance I want to say thank you and don't give up. Let's try this again and again until it's passed.

Does anyone know the legal requirements to launch a write-in campaign to get Scott Schaller as our Mayor...and to put El Mayor Senor Skip Edwards into retirement...where he belongs!!

I 'thought' the purchase of the City Council meeting last night was to hear the citizens of Fremont, and then to cast a vote?

How is it that Senor Skip had already decided 'before' the meeting and 'before' listening to the citizens of Fremont....had already prepared his notes that indicated he decided 'before' the meeting to vote no?

WOW....this whole process has been a example of how a democratic form of government is NOT suppose to function.

Would someone please respond as to how a write-in campaign for Schaller canbe put into motions....thanks!

I applaud the Mayor and 4 Councilmen for having the good sense not to waste my tax dollars on an ordinance that will do nothing to solve our country's immigration problems. Not only would this ordinance do nothing but drain our city's valuable tax dollars defending lawsuits, but it would not even have its intended effect of "running the Mexicans out of town".

Think about it.... the two largest employers of Hispanics are Hormel and Fremont Beef. Neither are in the city limits and neither will be affected. The two largest concentrations of Hispanics in the city are in the Regency and Meadowbrook trailer parks. Guess what? Neither of them are in the city limits and neither would have been subject to the checks!

Common sense should tell you that the only thing that would be accomplished by this ordinance was a bunch of lawsuits for the city to defend. And according to our city attorney and state's Attorney General, lawsuits we most likely will lose.

I am against illegal immigration and I believe most Americans are. Immigration reform must be addressed in this country, but it is up to our federal government, not the city of Fremont. I am hopeful that the circus we have just been through raises the immigration issue as an important problem in our country and does not cast Fremont as a backward, racist community.

I would also like to address a few myths out there.

1. The illegals are not up here collecting welfare. They are illegal and do not qualify contrary to what some believe. They are here working.

2. Illegals do pay taxes. When they obtain their "false" ids to work, taxes and social security are withheld from their checks like everyone else. Unlike lawful citizens, they will not draw social security at retirement or send in for tax refunds each year.

3. Hormel only hires illegals. Hormel does their best to check the status of each employee using the very database that our ordinance was going to require. I recently heard that 60% of Hormels employees are Hispanic. That means 40% or nearly 1,000 are not.

4. The illegals are a bunch of criminals. They have their "bad apples" like every other group in our society, but their percentage is no higher than anyone else. The vast majority are hard working, honest, family loving and God fearing people. Our country was built on people like them.

5. The "European" immigrants spoke English when they came here. No they didn't..... their children learned it. They tended to live and work in their own neighborhoods like "Little Italy" or other ethnic areas. The Hispanic children are learning English and by the 3rd generation, most will not even be able to speak Spanish.

These people are coming to America to try to make a better life for their families, just as the European immigrants did a century ago. Do you know where many of those immigrants worked? Most of them worked doing manual labor, such as in packing houses and other menial jobs. Their children and grandchildren went to school and grew up to be productive members of our society. The diversity all these different cultures brought to our country has only made us greater.

Again, I agree we need immigration reform. But let's do it responsibly and apply our pressure where it can potentially make a difference.

This is a reply to NEGOP, Overall it appears you are forgetting to pull your checkbook out. Your opinion is nice but have you ever thought how this would stand legally. If the entire city could use your checkbook to fight the ACLU and every other organization out there I am sure we could have got that passed. Each person that voted no had there reasons in which most I would guess had the city in mind and not your opinion. I would rather have the city council and the citys cashflow running the city and not tied up in legal battles. Congrats to all who saved us money and time!!!!!

Now the ordinance hangover. Emotions, insults and the likes have ran wild.

Having had indifferent feelings of the ordinance, and now that it is over (although some hardline advocates will declare it's not over), here are some thoughts:

1. The counncil let this get way out of hand. It should have not even passed at the first reading. It is/was a no winner either way. Pass it and get sued or reject it and send the message Fremont tolerates illegals.
2. To the argument "you gotta try something". To an extent I agree, but what good is a knife in a gunfight? The argument of "trying" is absurd based on the consequences of a known costly suit and if failed to pass (which has come to fruition) the door is left open.
3. Illegal is illegal? I never could buy it. Many of the folks argueing this were throwing stones from their glass houses.
4. As for those wanting it rejected...it will not be long before Paul Revere Jr will be riding through town warning us of the movement.
5. To Bobo--you are the most creative poster I have read. You made the issue, at the minimum, entertaining. Thanks.
6. To Andy S.--You will need to open branch locations in the city parks and State Lakes to clean poo. Labor is cheap now a days and you don't need to offer any benefits, those will be generated and supplied elsewhere.

7. The only one proven right in all of this was the Johnny Appleseed attorney from Lincoln who said at the very onset (and booed and jerred heavily) this ordinance will divide the community. That it has.

Adios buenos noches amigos!
See ya later good night friends!
(remaining indifferent)

I was really happy to read the vote was taken and voted against the proposed ordinance and that this debate has ended; now I pray the City of Fremont can start the healing process, stop the anger, the division, the hatred.

Can we please move on? Can we become neighbors again? Can the City of Fremont live in peace?

I know there are alot of upset people out there just like there are alot of happy people, but this is over, lets move on and move forward.

I'm really hoping it doesn't take the years I predict to get past the division this ordinance has created, I'm asking all to please let this die NOW! This had to stop now and Mayor Skip Edwards had the courage along with the other four councilmembers to end this, now it's up to us; the residents of Fremont, to let this go and let it die peacefully.

I have lived in Fremont my entire life and I feel very let down that the rest of the City Council did not have the guts to follow through with this. I agree with "was NEGOP" now we know who will take a stand for our city and who will not and who to "Vote Out".

RECALL RECALL RECALL RECALL SKIPPY!!
NOW IS THE TIME!!! HE does NOT have Fremonts interest at heart!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One good way for the people of fremont usa to let their leaders know you are upset with their vote against the ordinance is to stop using any services/products at any stores they own/operate or employed at. This might be the best way to let them know is thry their pocketbooks! This whole thing should of been a legal citizen vote, no just a few who don't have the guts to stand up for what is LEGAL. saying it is a federal isuue is just wrong-when was the last time the federal government did anything right?

I think their should be law for the people working in fremont because that is trying jobs away from people that was born in u.s and the people are trying finds jobs in fremont. I worked at the fremont mall about 2 years until dial corp. decide to hired alien for low wages when they did that I lose my job

Doesn't Fremont really have bigger issues to contend with than wasting time and money on an illegal ordinance?

Perhaps if the city fathers we really concerned about Fremont they would be focusing on real econmic development instead of emotionally charged finger pointing.

But then blame is always better to give than recieve.

Maybe we should just send all the mexicans to reservations like they did with the Indians. And this reservation should be located in Mexico. And we can have these peole watch the camp John Anderson, Gary Bolton,Skippy Edwards, Scott Getzschman and Jon Gilfry.

to: was NEGOP

YOU ARE Right ON!!!!!! I know exactly who I am voting for this fall.

To Scott Schaller, please do a write in campaign!!! Skip has officially shown how he really feels about the future of our community.

I am appauled by John Anderson, Gary Bolton, Scott Getzschman and Jon Gilfry. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if none of you are in office this time next year. You don't deserve to be. I know some of you personally and am very sad to say that I know you. You are all an embarrasment to Fremont. The whole point of this was ILLEGAL!!!!!!!!! Immigrants.

Why is everyone so afraid of profiling? Our town is not being invaded by illegal Itailian, Russian, Chinease, etc...imigrants. They are coming in droves from Mexico. That is a fact. What is wrong with acknowledging that?

Interesting that this meeting was not scheduled to even vote last night. It was so that the council members could hear the voices that were pro/con the ordinance in the community. Funny that the mayor would already have a prepared written statement/vote before anything had even started last night. It just goes to show you that these people are not looking out for what the people feel/think, they have their own agenda and everything is preplanned before a word is spoken. How very sad and cowardice to vote to deliberately tell illegal aliens that they are welcome here and we'll take care of you...free of charge. This city is heading to become a Schuyler and our city council is promoting it. There will come a day when those same people will be wondering how this ever came to be, and sadly it will be because of their own doing.

While last night's issue didn't get the go-ahead, something still needs to be done. Illegal is illegal....plain and simple.

This country's leaders need to stand up and put an end to the freeloading done by illegals. I understand the need to look for a better way of life, but it can be done LEGALLY. Rome wasn't built in a day, you know. The naturalization process is that.....a process. My ancestors from Europe went through it and so can others'. It just takes time.

Little by little, the country is weakening. You can't expect a rapid influx of people to not affect the economy. It's too much, too fast.

One day people will wake up and say "What happened?". Higher medical costs due to the stress on the system due to those who can't pay, crime increases (just look at the percentage of Hispanic names in the weekly papers!), increase of Spanish-language this and that everywhere.....it's only going to get worse unless something is done.

We live in AMERICA.......why do we have to cater to those who are illegal and aren't from here? I can guarantee you if you went to a foreign country they wouldn't pamper Americans and treat them special. Why does the U.S. allow it?

PLEASE, government officials......look at what you're doing! YOU may not feel the effects right now, but what about your children and your grandchildren? Don't allow the country to continue to be ripped apart at the seams.

I don't live in Fremont anymore but I was disappointed in the outcome of the vote. I hope this will be a starting point, not only for our communities but also all around the states, and something else will get done to solve the problem. Afterall, it is illegal for many people to be here. You don't put up with other illegal activity, so why is this ok? I just need someone to explain the difference to me on what is illegal and what is "illegal". Good job to Bob Warner! We could use more people like him who have an opinion and take a stand on a tough issue. Like him or his ordinance or not--he brought attention to an issue that needs to be addressed. Thanks Bob, you are a good man!

First of all if we keep backing down from these people, we will one day be the audience in front of a hispanic city council. They will be voting to get us out of here. Maybe "skip" could quit going to McDonald's every morning, and Him and Scott Getzschman could take their crowd to "Latino's" opps. Excuse me, I meant Valentino's. Fremont Businessman, of course they don't want the illegal's going anywhere. What a JOKE!!!

We're all our own enemies on this world. No law is going to stop someone from doing something. The law has yet to fully stop people from killing, cheating, hazing, rape, arson, etc.
Also, do you honestly know why people are immigrating? The majority are trying to get their family to a safe ground. Yes, they may be illegal, but they also have a family. Read up on the facts before you shout out what you believe and how racist you are.
You can't argue something you know absolutely NOTHING about. I despise racist people. You ARE the reason for gang crimes and many other crimes that have been occurring recently, simply because you don't know, or don’t want to see both sides.
We're all entitled to our opinions, but many people abuse the privilege.
Another thing, don't bash on someone’s vote. It's their choice. That shows a person strong in their own beliefs of what is right. You don't need to call them "half-rate". It wasn't a cowardly action, it was opposite. It was a brave decision. The one who said that I bet has yet to read up on anything on their own, they just listen to the news. Does the news point out everything that is going on in Mexico? Nope. Does it show how many children are being killed because of this pointless war? Nope. It doesn't show anything except what Brittany Spears did the other day. Nope.
We're becoming a pathetic economy. Sure, we're free. We're also the MOST ignorant country on the planet.
My thoughts are kind of every which way, sorry.

"After attending the city council meeting tonight I was very disappointed. Crowds of Hispanics were gathered at the entrance to the High School, with their babies and children to monopolize the seating in the auditorium. We honesty felt like we were outnumbered and had to fight our way in. Babies cried and cell phones went off but nothing was done to correct the problem. One Veteran was escorted out for saying something, but when one of the Hispanics was caught clapping she was just instructed to stop."

Read that portion of what someone wrote. Yeah, Mexicans are going to stand outside of an illegal immigration meeting, that's a given. And the part "We honestly felt like we were out numbered" What the?! That's the most racist thing I've read on here! You, my non-friend, you are ungodly racist. That was probably the most racist thing to say.
Now, answer me this. What did the veteran say?
What did the Hispanic clap to?
There are different reasons for things. Saying and doing are two totally different things. Most likely, the Hispanic was clapping for something he/she believed in. The veteran probably made a racist comment that was not needed.
Also,
NEWSFLASH:
BABIES CRY AND CELL PHONES RING. WELCOME TO OUR WORLD.
There's another thing "Skip" did. He researched all of the possibilities, unlike most of you. Read up on gangs in El Salvador. Read up on MS-13. Attend Fremont High School for a year and watch the racism unfold. Go talk to someone who is an "illegal immigrant" and listen to what they have to say. Some want an honest living. I know a lot of them like that. I know they just got their family out of turmoil.
Of course, everyone should pay for what they get.
One more thing. It's just a little racist to call someone an "alien". Yes it means foreigner, but it also means :

3. A person who has been estranged or excluded.
4. A creature from outer space.; extraterrestrial.
5. Residing under a government or in a country other than that of one’s birth without having or obtaining the status of citizenship there.
6. Belonging or relating to aliens: alien property.
7.unlike one's own; strange; not belonging to one: alien speech.
8.adverse; hostile; opposed (usually fol. by to or from): ideas alien to modern thinking.
9. extraterrestrial.

Thank you, Skip, for doing the right thing. May God bless you and your family!

It's sad this law got voted down. Maybe it is better to get a State law like Oklahoma, Arizona, Mississippi, Missouri, Georgia and other States.

It is time to get these ILLEGAL ALIENS out of this Country. They are breaking the law everyday they are here, and the un-American employers who hire them are breaking the law as well. It's time for our laws to be enforced. Let's hope E-Verify get enforced so each employer has to use it. Let's take all the benefits away from the ILLEGAL ALIENS, who, by law, should NOT get them, and maybe these ILLEGAL ALIENS will get the hint to get out of a Country to which they DO NOT belong!

to: John Anderson, Gary Bolton, Scott Getzschman and Jon Gilfry:
could each of you give us a list of all your assets, including property, so we can see who your connected with and who you are protecting? thank you for your vote on this matter. you have shown us all what your really made of. now if you would list your assets for us we will all know who else to say "thanks" to. (and yes i am being sarcastic)

To: Seriously @ Jul 30, 2008 1:38 PM - WELL PUT!!! It wasn't about racist until people on this website shout out Hispancis this or Mexicans than or the dumbest ever Frexico. Wow this community is so divided that I don't think I want to work here/live here/ or even shop here! I fully respect everyone's opinion but some opinions are not educated!

Skip is against illegal aliens, but consulted lawyers and realized that the city cannot enforce Federal Laws. We need to put pressure on ovr Federal leaders to enforce laws on the book.

Nancy said: "We were sitting in the back with children crying, screaming and a lot of the time we could not hear what was going on. Those child should not have been allowed in that meeting, they were disruptive and nothing was done to stop them"

I have already stated that I had my child there. I made a point to leave when he became disruptive. That aside, I don't care if he would have screamed through the entire thing. I would have stayed if I really would have wanted to. Even though I left, his little cries weren't any more annoying than the numerous cell phones I heard going off.

I'm a legal, tax paying, member of this community. Like so many others in this issue had I been asked to leave I would have cried discrimination because I read the rules twice before even attending, heard them read to me twice last night, and no where did it say people with children couldn't be there.

I also attended the meeting last night and I do believe either by their vote or their statement, that each City Council person and our Mayor all stated that we have a problem with illegal immigration and that something needs to be done, however, some didn't believe the ordinance was the right thing to do.

Thus, keep pushing on your representatives to DO SOMETHING. Do not let them ignore this issue just because the ordinance was voted against. MAKE THEM SHOW THE CITIZENS OF FREMONT THAT THEY ACTUALLY MEANT WHAT THEY SAID!

Ok now that this has not passed and I know that a person won't get charged for identity theft or forging documents, am I allowed to got to FAMC and NHHS and tell them that I don't have any documentation of who I am because I am here illegally (I'm a natural-born citizen as well as parents and grandparents) or purchase the identity of a deceased person and get FREE medical and other benifits for my family too under my NEW assumed identity or non-identity. I don't have medical insurance anymore, it's too costly to purchase independently and I make too much to qualify for assistance under my real identity. I work and pay my TRUE share of taxes so I thinking I should be allowed to break these laws as well. My family is no less deserving of benifits than any of the illegal people are we, just because we are white? Wouldn't that be racisim and discrimination toward us? If they can do it, why can't I?

I am glad that we are proving to the children in this world that if something is illegal it really doesn't mean anything just go ahead and get away with whatever you want in Fremont NE
I guess i was brought up correct and with great parents we knew what illegal ment and we would not do things that were illegal and if we did we thought there would be punishment! I was also brought up to respect people but i will have no respect for people that came here illegally and people who let them

Let them distroy our city all of us hard working Americans that do respect Fremont we hopefully stand up for what is ours

If you are a legal citizen you have to obey the laws of our free country, but if you are an illegal ALIEN you do NOT. If we or anyone else in the world go to another county and break the law we have to pay the consequences by the laws of that country. The United States of America needs to get back on track and make consequences for the illegal actions people make in this county. I am for immigrants coming to our country to make a better life for themselves and their families as long as they obey our laws, speak our language and come here legally.

TO: "Regarding Chidren at the Meeting
Jul 30, 2008 3:25 PM "

It's a MEETING. Do you honestly think business can be conducted and decisions reached with children screaming and crying? If that was the case, employers would allow everyone to bring their children to work and have no issues with it being DISTRACTING and OUT OF PLACE.

Lets face it folks---we got sold out by the mayor and his croonies. Lets remember the next election

Guess we might as well put up a sign on the bi-pass that says "Hola - Welcome to Fremont". The Mayor said this was a federal issue. What better way to get the Feds attention than by having our city set the bar for other cities to follow. Sure this probably wouldn't have held up in court, but when lawsuits from such ordinances start to clog up an already overcrowded legal system, the Feds would have been forced to sit up and take notice as to what the American people really want!

I say we get serious about writing in Scott Schaller's name for mayer in the November election. At least we know that in tough times, he votes on the side of real Americans and doesn't pass this issue onto the Federal Government who doesn't seem interested in doing anything about illegals. Congrats to Mary, Charlie and Bob for voting their conscience rather than their pocketbooks!

Hats off to the woman who said the following: "In any other country, having over 12 million people come into your country uninvited is considered an INVASION!" The American people need to get serious about taking back this wonderful country from ALL illegals!

Thank you Mayor Edwards and those that voted against this ordinance. I heard that each of you spoke on reasons why you did not want to persue this issue. However, it was made know to me that those that voted Yes did not give reason why they supported it. I would be interested in knowing why you support an issue that would cost so much to the tax payer? I am really disappointed in you. You have a responsibility to the city of fremont to take care of issues that help promote economic development and make it an attractive and peaceful place for people, even if that means going against the opinion of the people you are representing. It is your responsibility to be educated in these areas when the public may not be. The US does not give authority to local and state governments to address the issue of immigration.

Isn't it ironic...Mayor Edwards stated he "is bound by the law" yet the issue of illegal immigration is outside the law and the illegals are not bound by the law. How many other laws can we pick and chose to obey? How about paying taxes? How about the speed limit? How many laws can we ignore? Illegal is illegal. Pretty simple!

Every one seems upset at the cost of a court battle to save our city and country. What about the cost illegals are costing us in emergency room visits at FAMC, the food stamps they spend at walmart, the cost of keeping them in jail and their free lawyers provided by our tax dollars. I would gladly exchange one for the other.

Thanks "Skip" Edwards.

Today I'm not posting anything against or in pro. Everything is so obviously fantastic.
lets just celebrated and for those who don't agreed can occupy my space to continue complaining all you want for as long as you want,(going to celebrate) cause We legally got what we legally needed. and this I call it "Justice has bean done"
Thanks again to all the good people (the majority) who posted all those good comments against the now ex-proposed ordinance.

INTEGRATION IS THE NEXT STEP.

My landlord, neighbors (150) and I we all heaving a party today, every body is welcome lets celebrated now and have it last forever.
Thanks councilman that voted against.
Thanks Fremont Tribune for aloud as to express our opinion.
And thanks to all the people for their well behavior and no violence.

I heard Senor Skip say he had to follow the letter of the law, he had no choice. Which law Skip? The one that has been on the books for decades or the one illegal immigrants want you to use. You sold us out Skip. Now is time for Schaller. VOTE SCHALLER, VOTE OUT SKIP!!!

I no longer live in Fremont, but have family that do. So I have heard about this proposed ordinance hearing in Fremont. I have one simple question: has your crime rate increased since the illegals have come into Fremont? If the answer is yes, then I suggest to you and your mayor that you look at the community of Burlington, Colorado. Their crime rate has more than doubled since the illegals have come to this small farming community. I can only state that I am so sorry for you people of Fremont as this is a problem just waiting to happen. Remember your mayor and council members on the next election!

*********Jul 30, 2008 4:04 PM
TO: "Regarding Chidren at the Meeting
Jul 30, 2008 3:25 PM "

It's a MEETING. Do you honestly think business can be conducted and decisions reached with children screaming and crying? If that was the case, employers would allow everyone to bring their children to work and have no issues with it being DISTRACTING and OUT OF PLACE*****

You're right it was a meeting. Open to all in the community regardless of race, immigration status, and *gasp* even offspring status.

I made a PERSONAL decision to leave when I felt that my child was being disruptive. But if I had really wanted to stay and hear what everyone had to stay, I would have. It was a free and open meeting to all. There IS a difference between the workplace where the employer is paying me for my full attention and time and a meeting open to the public.

By the way, apparently business CAN be conducted and decisions reached with children present, because if you recall, a vote was taken and the ordinance wasn't passed. Meeting conducted. Decision reached.

Why do we not support and enforce the federal government laws? This makes Fremont a safe haven for illegal imigrants. How many board members own rental property and voted no for potential personal gain? Let the citizens vote on this!!

If you have any questions, refer to the post from Dave Sutton and g. They make the most sense and are not speaking out of emotion.
Lets face it folks, this debate is about 10 years overdue. Now the feds need to get the "illegals" on the fast track to becoming legal with consequences for not following through.

Since i dont live there...i cant say much ..however to those who are disgusted by the outcome of the meeting...start teh phone calls......state reps congressman whoever will listen choke there phone lines until they HAVE to take notice....this HAS to be dealt with and if Skip chooses to stay out of it...then elect a mayor that will stand up for Fremont...make a safe place...a Town that we can all be proud of..one that does not harbor Illegals!!!!!

Thankyou Charlie J. and the other council members who stood up and did what's right. To Skippy; grow a backbone you pathetic sellout.

Congratulations Fremont, you are now known as a "Sanctuary City". A city that will always be known to embrace illegal criminals. "Sanctuary city policies defy guidelines from the 9/11 Commission Report, which called on state and local authorities to help federal agencies crack down on illegal immigration."

I really hope everyone remembers this the next time they vote. I know for fact that when I get out of the Army, my name is going on that ballot!

TRAVIS, I had boycotted Edwards oil for years when he was against topless dancing.It was the closest station to my home.I don't know if it made a difference,but I sure felt better.

To the Council Members that voted no: Have you looked at what's happened to other cities as well as states? California is a great example. Crime keeps going up and hospitals are in the red because of the free services they have to give the illegals, most jobs reguire you to be bilingual, there is far more domestic violence within the hispanic community.(I know this firsthand due to social work)If Fremont doesn't do something soon it will get out of hand. Let them come but do it leagally.

I am very saddened that once again people who were voted into positions to represent the public have taken it upon themselves to vote for what they want rather than to listen to the majority. I do not feel the citizens of Fremont were given the opportunity to voice their opinions on an issue that was not to be decided until Aug. 26th - how disheartening that a few chose to make this decision. I do not beleive that was fair. I think I understand now why so few voters go to the polls - citizens no longer feel represented, and that is a shame. Further, I am offended to hear racism thrown in people's faces, and while I do believe for some people it may be about race, there are many, many more of us who do not fit this category. I would be proud to befriend anyone who comes to our city legally to work and make a better life, and in fact I have neighbors who happen to be Hispanic that are wonderful people. For me, this is not a race issue. Further, I find it sad that so many outside organizations came to the meeting last night, taking time away from the citizens who are affected most by this decision. Perhaps the organizations who believe so strongly that it is unfair to demand that illegal immigrants not be allowed to continue to live in our city illegally should take the money they threaten lawsuits with and help these illegal immigrants became legal (or would that measure cut into grant money they receive from the Federal Government for helping minorities and illegals). I feel the bottom line is this -- I can no longer afford to pay such high taxes and see such little benefit in return (eg: property taxes). If Fremont cannot address this issue, then find a way to give the legal citizens some breaks - lower property taxes and start taxing items that all people must buy. That way legal or not you are contributing. Demand that our schools teach only in English - thus giving our teachers a break - do not allow court appointed interpretors that a non-English speaking person does not have to reimburse the County for - if you cannot speak English and you have broken the law - then you should pay for the interpretor. Emergency rooms cannot turn anyone away, and that should be a good thing, but when my child broke her ankle and had to have emergency care, the cost of my deductible and 20% was horrible and took me forever to pay, yet illegal immigrants are given a lot of the emergency care for free - that is not right. This is where the anger comes from - legal citizens who are fighting to survive and council members not supporting the taxpaper's wishes.

Hey Bob and Scott S., don't let the door hit you on the way out! Did you see Bob on TV? He looked like he just lost the 7th game in the World Series.

Charlie lost votes and donations last night. Some people next to me were saying Charlie looked bored last night.

I honestly feel let down in a few ways. For one our fedral Govt. should have taken action long ago before this came to individual cities fighting to resolve it on there own. This is an issue of wrong and right! They have broken the law from second one that they snuck into the country or did not handle the legalities of there expired visa's on time. Why should we the tax payers have to pick up the lose ends for them? They end up with free health care (or they just dont pay the bill) Our country gives them more rights then the American born citizen and now Fremont has just endorsed itself as a safe haven for illeagal imigrants! Action is needed now! Not 6 months from now! It does not matter what country, race or ethinticity they are, if they are not here legally they should be sent home. I know myself I am tired of struggling while they pay for there groceries with food stamps then pay for there new TV in the same store with hundreds of dollars of cash they have in there pocket too!!

During an open meeting as this was, people do not have to give their name. The body my ask, however the person speaking is not required to.

We pay a Hooper resident to be the City Attorney and didn't know this rule.

The residents of Fremont learned a valuable lesson last night at the council meeting. Four councilmen and the Mayor have effectively told us that obedience to the law is only for a select few. We learned that our safety, welfare and opinions rank 2nd to the almighty dollar. Finally we learned that we elected the wrong 5 men to lead our city lets change the learning curve in the upcoming election.

Congratulations to the Fremont City Council for maintaining decorum, and an atmosphere where people from both sides of the issue could speak their minds.

My hats off to Skip for exercising common sense, recognizing that the 'rule of law' applies to states and cities as well, and since our constitution explicitly gives Congress the power to regulate immigration, the state and local government cannot regulate immigration unless Congress delegates that power.

Note there were speakers from outside Fremont on both sides of the issue.

IT IS NOT ABOUT BEING RACIST PEOPLE. ITS ABOUT BEING LEGAL.
Why is it when something like this comes up, it is about race. Everyone is welcome.. if your legal. Sure, some people may be racist. Seriously though, this is about illegals becoming legal,paying taxes, and so on. Is it so hard to do or understand??

They still dont deserve to be here.

You right you don't go to Mexico and take there jobs away. You just go and build a store in there country. How stupid are u people NoT Everyone is from Mexico. Get ur facts right.

Fremont

I am a hispanic "legal or not" who knows. All I do know is that you white people are tearing this town apart. One is entitle to there opinion is that why we have the right to vote. Everyone who is for the ordinance are hating on the Mayor when it was Fremont people who voted for him. Just because Scott S. voted for the ordinance does not really mean that if he was Mayor is wouldn't go any different. A candidate will go to the extreme to get votes. Just because May Skip doesn't make him a bad person. This isn't Burger King we don't always get what we won't.

I get so tired of hearing all of you complain, complain, complain without getting all the facts. John Anderson spend over half of his life upholding the law. He knows the difference between legal and illegal, which is why he and 4 other people voted no for this law. It is an illegal law that cannot be upheld, no matter how much they may want it to be. It would just end up costing the city money. Then all of you complainers would be complaining about that as well. Please get all the facts of everything before you rush to judge. Passing an illegal, unupholdable law would make the council members no better than the illegals here. I agree something needs to be done, but it needs to start at the national level so it is some sort of law that can be upheld. I agree, it's an election year. Start pressing your elected officials. Skip, John, Gary, Jon & Scott, I am very proud of you for making the tough decision to uphold the law, not bucking in to the pressures the others did.

I don't care how much it may cost the city. If you are illegal, then you have no right to be here. I bet we could find some things that we overspend on in this city that we could cut back. That way we could fund these type's of ordinances. Illegal is illegal. Just like every law we have. Why is this so different?

I just thought maybe they should have utilized the meeting as a sting and determined how many of the mexicans there were illegal. Kinda like they do when they say you won a tv and get you to drive to pick up the tv only to be arrested. That would have been the only good thing that came out of the meeting. I am soo ashamed to say I live in Fremont. Our leaders have no backbone!!

People . . . this issue cannot be solved by the ordinance of which some of you were in favor. The issue is not as simple as some of you want to make it. If the government had done something decades ago, we wouldn't have the problem today. With that in mind, we need to do things that actually solve the problem

First, we need to be serious about securing our borders. Second, we need to find and document all of the workers that are here. Third, we put all of the current workers on the fast track to citizenship so they can pay taxes and contribute to society in positive ways.

As far as your obviously racist comments about language, etc . . . Anybody who comes to the US should make every effort to learn English. It is the smart thing to do. It makes their lives easier. However, many native born US citizens don't use English properly so maybe we should send them back to school as well.

Complaining about these folks coming to the US illegally is not at issue, but making racist comments is inappropriate and morally wrong.

Funny how people complain about this issue so loudly, but the Fremont City Council and citizens of Fremont haven't made any efforts to ostracize child molesters, drunk drivers, rapists, drug addicts, etc . . . These scum bags have actually hurt other people while Illegals are here to make a living and support their families.

I can understand and forgive an illegal for trying to make a better life for his/her family. I wonder how many of you would do the same if you were in the same situation. If my kids were starving, I know I'd do anything I could, short of hurting someone, to feed them.

Next time you speed in your car, throw a candy wrapper on the ground or take a pencil from work, think about if you'd like to have the government coming down on you hard for committing your crime. Wait! That doesn't count, because your crime isn't big enough for which to be punished. It IS, however, the law that YOU are breaking.

To Seriously, WHAT DID THE VETERAN SAY???

A portion of Seriously's comment...

"Now, answer me this. What did the veteran say?
What did the Hispanic clap to?
There are different reasons for things. Saying and doing are two totally different things. Most likely, the Hispanic was clapping for something he/she believed in. The veteran probably made a racist comment that was not needed."

I can answer your question as to what did the veteran say... I was sitting near him in the balcony and he only said "bring it on." Not racist sounding but disruptive.

Unfortunately as I was taking notes about what all the speakers said, I didn't mark WHEN the veteran was escorted out or WHO was talking prior to his comment. The man did not argue or fight, he stood up and waited for the police to escort him out. Actually the police passed right by him looking for someone else before they realized who they were supposed to get.

In regards to the hispanic people clapping, I could not see or hear very much clapping in the balcony and so have no answer to that part. If people were being disruptive in those sections then someone should have informed the police standing along the walls who was clapping and to escort them out. I can only comment that all the rest of the people in the balcony both hispanic and white were all respectful and mostly quiet wanting to hear everyone's comments.

If you are going to complain about the phones ringing and people talking you should also look towards the media that were busy talking to each other and answering their phones throughout the meeting.

I am sickened by statements I am reading and hearing over and over again.
Let's get some information first, like just exactly how many illegal aliens are we talking about here? If the Hispanic population is 15%, is the illegal population 2%, 8%, 12%??
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHY people are perceiving the issue as racial? please note:
1. Comments at the meeting last night implying that Hispanic males are sex offenders.
2. Comments about OUR (white) children, FINE FREMONT (white) citizens, OUR (white) culture, THEIR (latino) children taking up space in the YMCA, schools, seats in the auditorium (never mind that the child is a citizen by birth).
3. When you look at a Hispanic person, do you look at them with suspician? With disdain? Do you look at poor whites the same way? And wonder how many city resources they are using?
4. Finally, it is so curious that people are so upset about this 'legal' issue, it is a handy way to hide behind the racial issue. Will we now have big town hall meetings on other laws being broken in this town??
This whole episode has made me sick. I am thinking we need MAJOR change in this country. If this is what 'conservatism' is, then I am changing parties.

"All I do know is that you white people are tearing this town apart."

You "white people"? Looks like racism is coming from both sides here. Sadly though, there won't be such an outcry of racism for the comment "you white people" as there would be if I got on here and said "you black people" or "you mexicans".

But I guess it's only racist if you're one of those "white people". Get a clue. Want to end the tearing apart of this community start with your own racist speech.

I think the sign says Fremont Just Right.

It should say Fremont It Just Bites.

I guess thats why I am a former Fremonter.