Mayor Frank Yanish was elected during the 2010 elections with 4,121 votes and he will take office in January 2011. This change has created great expectations in the community of Willmar because of the support that mayor Frank expressed for Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act.

“ Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act was passed by congress in 1996 and authorizes the justice department and department of homeland security (DHS) to make arrangements with local law enforcement (state and municipal) so that they may carry out certain functions as U.S. immigration officers.

In May of 2010 for the first time around 100 people from diverse ethnic backgrounds gathered at Willmar’s city council objecting to Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act.  However, the community’s concern returned when Mayor Frank Yanish was elected.  The mayor publicly expressed his support toward Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act.

In an exclusive interview with la Gran America Mayor Yanish replied:

What are your priorities as Mayor of Willmar during your first year? We will work on the airport project, the privatization of the public sector, creating an industrial sector, the broadcast of meeting with all local committees.

What is your position on Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act?I’m in favor. But I’ve noticed that many people don’t know what Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act is about.  This is completely different than the Arizona SB1070 law.  This has nothing to do with racial profiling.  

Are you proposing this immigration act for Willmar?No, I do not propose this immigration act.  I’m just saying that I am in favor of Section 287(g) of the Immigration Act.  As mayor I don’t make the decision of implementing the act because it’s the city council’s decision.  I only make recommendations when I am in favor of something but I don’t make the decision.  I don’t have a vote unless there is a tie.

Do you consider that implementing this act will affect the economy of Willmar?  I do not understand why it would have a financial impact.  I just want to know who is here.  For example: If I sell tires and I want to sell liquor then I must have a license.  The reason for this is because someone wants to know who is selling liquor.

 How would local law enforcement operate if this act is approved? Currently Willmar police officers are arresting individuals for crimes he or she have committed  but with the ICE training the officer can verify if the person is undocumented in order to initiate the process and send him or her back to their country.

At the end of interview Mayor Yanish said, “The immigrant communities can peacefully enjoy Willmar.  Do not be afraid, things are going to be different but hopefully better.  I do not want to cause panic in the community.  All of you have a friend in the Mayor’s office. ¨