Billings Council Approves Police Grant Amid Protests
The city council approved a $164,000 federal grant for police equipment during a contentious meeting.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Immigration
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Billings City Council members approved a $164,000 federal Justice Assistance Grant on the consent agenda despite vocal opposition from local advocates. Protesters with the Billings Alliance for Immigrant Rights argued the funds could be misused, leading to disruptions during the session.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights local tensions over police cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Opponents fear the new equipment could facilitate enforcement actions that disproportionately impact immigrant families in the community.
The city council approved the $164,000 grant application through the meeting's consent agenda. This funding is designated for ballistic protective gear, less-lethal equipment, and patrol car upgrades.
The players
Billings City Council
The local governing body responsible for legislative decisions and the approval of municipal budget and grant applications.
Billings Alliance for Immigrant Rights
An advocacy organization that focuses on protecting the rights of immigrant families and monitoring local law enforcement policies.
Shawn Mayo
The Interim Police Chief of the Billings Police Department who manages the department's daily operations and council relations.
The details
City officials maintained that the department does not hold a 287(g) agreement with ICE and follows state law, which prohibits sanctuary jurisdictions. Interim Police Chief Shawn Mayo ordered a protester to leave the chambers after they displayed a paper target during the meeting.
Timeline
August 12: Federal immigration officers detained two families at a school supply giveaway.
August 24: A protester displayed a paper target at a city council meeting.
February 2026: The police department clarified its policy on law enforcement cooperation.
October 26, 2026: The City Council approved the federal grant application.
Political Context
Opponents of the grant argue that even without a formal 287(g) agreement, local police culture must be scrutinized to ensure federal immigration enforcement remains separated from municipal policing. They demand that the council separate items involving law enforcement funding for public debate.
Residents should be aware that the approval of this grant reinforces existing police department policies regarding inter-agency cooperation. The decision confirms that local law enforcement will continue to operate under current state legal frameworks without changes to its federal interaction protocols.
The takeaway
Transparency remains a central issue in the relationship between municipal government and advocacy groups. Residents seeking to influence future council decisions should utilize the public comment process before items are bundled into consent agendas.
Further reading
For broader context, visit our Immigration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Independent Record.
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