UNIMEX Meets with Mayor Bruce Rector on Immigration and Community Integration
On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, UNIMEX met with Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector to address the impact of ICE and immigration activities on the Hispanic community. The discussion also focused on exploring collaborative solutions to better integrate and support the Hispanic community within Clearwater.
Important takeaways from the meeting include:
Mayor Addresses Concerns about Immigration Enforcement
The Mayor explained that he would not be the first to know about immigration enforcement actions in Clearwater, as the Chief of Police and Sheriff would have more direct communication with federal agencies.
He noted that communities targeted for immigration raids are typically those that have declared intentions to obstruct federal authorities.
The Mayor expressed concern that recent immigration policies had negatively impacted the Hispanic community, as authorities now need to identify individuals with criminal backgrounds or security concerns among those who entered illegally.
He reassured the community representatives that he had not heard of any plans to target long-established residents or families with children.
Mayor's commitment to protecting vulnerable populations
“We will take care of the people who are here, particularly families and children who are here. If you need help as a caregiver, we will help you. We will do all those things that need to be done to make sure that your family is taken care of.
I will not be mayor of a city that doesn't take care of kids. And elderly people, but anybody vulnerable, but definitely kids and elderly people. So you have my commitment that I will do everything. And I know I speak for our Police, our Fire, our City Manager, our City Council, when I say that.” - City of Clearwater, Mayor Bruce Rector
The Mayor firmly stated his commitment to taking care of vulnerable populations in Clearwater, particularly families, children, and elderly people.
He emphasized that he would not be the mayor of a city that doesn't take care of kids and vulnerable populations.
The Mayor acknowledged that while he has limitations in what he can do regarding federal immigration enforcement, he and the City Council, Police, & Fire are committed to supporting residents.
He mentioned that if federal authorities wanted to question or detain, local police would not be able to interfere, illustrating the limits of local authority in federal matters.
Recommendation for Immigration Legal Preparation
The Mayor recommended that the Hispanic community proactively identify immigration attorneys who could help community members prepare for potential challenges.
He compared it to hurricane preparation, suggesting that the worst time to prepare is when the crisis is imminent.
UNIMEX mentioned we tried to organize forums with immigration attorneys but found community members reluctant to attend in-person meetings due to fear of raids, the Mayor suggested having attorneys write articles or provide printed materials with helpful tips and contact information as an alternative approach.
Community Concerns About Aggressive Enforcement Tactics
UNIMEX expressed serious concerns about current immigration enforcement practices, describing situations where people's rights were being violated.
We mentioned that even immigration attorneys were surprised by cases being closed without due process.
We described troubling incidents where people were detained based on appearance alone, with no questions asked about their legal status. For example, reports of permanent residents and U.S. citizens being wrongfully held.
We also raised alarms about individuals impersonating ICE agents and detaining people whose whereabouts subsequently couldn't be traced in official systems.
Importance of Trust Between Police and Hispanic community
UNIMEX shared a personal Hispanic community member experience highlighting the importance of maintaining trust between law enforcement and the Hispanic community.
The individual described how they learned about suspicious behavior and concerning comments from individuals at a car wash, which they were able to report to Hispanic police officers through a connection.
She emphasized that without trust, such critical security information would never be shared with authorities.
The Mayor acknowledged the importance of this trust relationship while reiterating the limitations of local authority when federal agencies are involved.
Request for Recreational Spaces for Hispanic Community
UNIMEX expressed their long-standing need for more recreational spaces, particularly for youth programs. We explained difficulties in securing park usage for Hispanic-led sports programs, noting they often get "whatever is left" after maintenance and community partners are prioritized.
We mentioned the successful Hispanic youth basketball and soccer programs in our area have but emphasized the challenges in accessing facilities.
UNIMEX shared a proposal for developing recreational spaces and expressed willingness to pay fees and raise funds, emphasizing we weren't seeking free access but rather equal opportunity.
Discussion of Potential Locations for Recreational Facilities
The Mayor discussed potential locations for recreational facilities, noting that some parks might not be ideal due to recent hurricane debris storage that damaged the areas.
He suggested the North Greenwood area as a better option, mentioning it has a history as a sports area. The Mayor acknowledged the county's shortage of soccer fields and indoor basketball facilities.
He explained that the two biggest challenges for such projects are space and funding, emphasizing that taxpayer money is limited and community partnerships would be essential for any new development.
Proposal for a Mayor's Hispanic Advisory Council
A community representative suggested establishing a Mayor's Hispanic Advisory Council in Clearwater, similar to one in Tampa.
The Mayor indicated he was aware of Tampa's council and would consider implementing something similar.
UNIMEX suggested such a council could meet monthly among themselves and quarterly or annually with the Mayor to discuss concerns and accomplishments, maintaining open communication with the Hispanic community.
Discussion of Spanish-language Citizens Academy
UNIMEX proposed conducting a Citizens Academy specifically in Spanish, offering to provide translation services and volunteers.
We mentioned that a previous proposal had been rejected.
The Mayor explained that staff time constraints were likely the reason for the rejection, especially during hurricane season when city resources were stretched thin.
He suggested that if the community organized the program through organizations like HOC or Amplify, with the City participating rather than leading, it would be more feasible.
The Mayor expressed support for the concept if implemented through community partnerships.
Recognition of Hispanic Community Contributions to Clearwater
UNIMEX emphasized the significant contributions their community makes to Clearwater's economy and infrastructure.
We expressed the growing number of Hispanic-owned businesses, including licensed contractors and landscapers.
Hispanic workers are essential in Clearwater's hospitality industry, construction projects (including the current City Hall construction), and rebuilding efforts after natural disasters.
The Mayor acknowledged these contributions and expressed his commitment to supporting the community within his authority's constraints.
Town Hall Request to Speak About Immigration with the Hispanic Community
Will you consider a town hall meeting with the Hispanic community?
Mayor Bruce has offered to meet with the Hispanic community so they can get to know him and his commitment to all Clearwater residents.
