Mayor Rolando Salinas reveals the state’s takeover of Eagle Pass’s Shelby Park, sparking controversy. Explore the city’s opposition, the impact on border control, and the legal battle ahead.
Eagle Pass, Texas, finds itself at the center of a contentious situation as the state takes control of the 50-acre Shelby Park along the Rio Grande. Despite opposition from Mayor Rolando Salinas, representatives from the Texas Department of Public Safety have executed the takeover to prevent unauthorized entries into Texas.
Mayor Salinas Voices Concerns
In a Facebook video shared on Wednesday evening, Mayor Salinas expressed his discontent with the state’s decision to assume “complete responsibility” for Shelby Park. The move, aimed at curbing the unauthorized entry of migrants from Mexico, was neither desired nor requested by the city. Mayor Salinas emphasized that this was not the solution they sought.
The visuals shared by the mayor depicted fences and military vehicles obstructing the entrance to Shelby Park, signaling the immediate impact of the state’s intervention.
Shelby Park: A Hotspot in the Border Crisis
Shelby Park has become a focal point in the ongoing border crisis, particularly within the framework of Governor Greg Abbott’s “Operation Lone Star.” The location serves as a gathering point for the Texas National Guard and Texas DPS, both integral parts of Abbott’s initiative to address the surge in illegal border crossings.
Mayor Salinas revealed that the state plans to assume control of Shelby Park indefinitely, citing the border disaster declaration issued by Governor Abbott, which was recently renewed in December. The decision, made under the broader context of the ongoing border crisis, sets the stage for a potential legal battle between the federal government and state authorities.
City’s Response
Addressing the media on Thursday, Mayor Salinas expressed concern that U.S. Border Patrol Agents’ entry into the designated area might be restricted. He hinted at a possible resolution through litigation, indicating that the city is exploring legal avenues to regain authority over Shelby Park.
The state of Texas, responding to the persistent issue of unauthorized border crossings, announced plans to use buoys in the Rio Grande River. This decision follows a meeting between Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and CBP agents during his visit to the city on Monday.
In response to the increasing challenges at the southern border, Governor Abbott’s spokesperson, Renae Eze, blamed President Joe Biden for the surge in illegal immigration. The state has implemented measures such as miles of razor wire and anti-climb barriers. Eze criticized the Biden Administration for lax immigration enforcement, allowing Mexican cartels to operate freely.
As the situation unfolds, Mayor Salinas stated that the city is actively evaluating legal avenues to regain authority over Shelby Park. The controversy surrounding the state’s takeover adds complexity to the broader efforts to address the border crisis in Eagle Pass.
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