http://www.waff.com/Global/story.asp?S=5268009

Aug 11, 2006 09:25 AM

One city councilman wants Huntsville to lead the state in a stand against illegal immigration--by punishing those who aid them.

More than 100 people showed up at Thursday night's council meeting, many anxious to hear what if anything the city will do to crack down on illegal immigrants. But looks like they'll have to wait just a little longer.


More than a hundred faces, all gazing at the Huntsville City Council Thursday night. Some of them wondering if members would pass an ordinance by Glenn Watson to crack down on illegal immigrants in Huntsville. But before this group could debate...

"Mr. President, I'd like to table the ordinance," said its creator, Watson.

Watson pulled the ordinance--just for now--until a task force can study the issue of illegal immigration and the impact it has on Huntsville.

It all started with a proposal he made last month. He says too many illegal immigrants are making their way into the United States and Huntsville must set a standard for the state that shows illegal immigrants won't be tolerated.

He wants to see landlords and employers who aid them punished by fines and jail time. Thursday night, Watson was not alone in his call for action.

"The victims are our citizens, who follow the laws and enter the country legally and our public school children," said one Huntsville resident.

If you are interested in being on this task force, call your city council representative.

Once the task force has a chance to do their research, a public hearing will be held before any kind of vote is taken.