Illegal immigrant debate sparks accusations of racism
WBBH-TV
COLLIER COUNTY: Collier County Commissioners say taxpayers are paying way too much to support illegal immigrants and they have lashed out at the federal government. Using information from an NBC2 investigation, commissioners approved a resolution demanding more border protection for Collier County.

The NBC2 investigation uncovered illegal immigrants sitting in Collier County jails cost taxpayers around $8.5 million a year.

"I did get the $8.5 million from the report, because we did some research," said Coyle.

Coyle lashed out at the federal government for not protecting our borders on Tuesday and it is a concern shared by the entire commission.

Coyle went on to say illegal immigrants living outside the jail cost taxpayers even more.


"We also have large medical costs and social service costs in Collier County. Our schools are over-burdened with people who shouldn't be there quite frankly," said Coyle.

Victor Valdes, of the League of Latin American Citizens, says Collier County government leaders have no business in the immigration debate and that they are trying to rid the community of diversity.

Valdes had a message for Commissioner Coyle.


"You are a racist, you are a racist," said Valdes. "Let immigration do their job."

It did not take long for Coyle to respond to the comment.

"First time I've been called racist, but the people call me lots of things because they can't debate the issues. They have to resort to name calling," said Coyle.

Valdes says Collier County needs illegal immigrants to do the work others won't.

"Illegal aliens are good for the economy," said Valdes.

"Absolutely ridiculous. If we need the labor, we can get people here legally," responded Coyle.

The commissioners will now send the resolution to President George Bush, Governor Charlie Crist, state lawmakers, and leaders with other communities experiencing the same problem.


URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17600432/

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17600432/