County working to minimize risks from illegal immigration

Late Thursday night, I received a call from Congressman Ryan Zinke’s office, briefing me on what they knew about a group of illegal aliens who had just flown into our airport. This continued with calls from Sheriff Brian Heino, and Mayor Mark Johnson of Kalispell. Information continued come in every few minutes.  

We followed this up with meetings on Friday morning and afternoon. The details are still coming together but in a thumbnail: Two illegal alien families from Venezuela had crossed from Mexico into Texas. Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas flew them to New York in response to the president’s policy changes that have created an open border. Someone, or group, sent them from New York to the Flathead Thursday evening, and the sheriff has been dealing with this since because public safety and security of Flathead County’s residents are of utmost importance and is the primary responsibility of the sheriff and the Flathead County Commissioners. 

I’m greatly concerned that this incident has taken place within our community and am looking for every mechanism possible to minimize risk and to protect the safety and values of our community.  

I am also asking the Gov. Greg Gianforte’s office for a prompt state resolution and asking him to take preventive measures at every opportunity. County government does not have the authority or resources to remove illegal aliens, but I believe the governor can and should.  

I especially appreciate Sheriff Heino, Mayor Johnson and Congressman Zinke for their swift and diligent efforts in addressing this situation and exploring potential solutions, and we are actively collaborating with Zinke to find solutions and to address the likelihood of future occurrences.

The commissioners will continue to work closely with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of Flathead County residents.

Randy Brodehl is a Flathead County Commissioner and former Montana state legislator.