Decorah Human Rights Commission Plans Public Input on Proposed Separation Ordinance

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — Members of the Decorah Human Rights Commission (DHRC) signaled plans to move forward with public input on a proposed "separation ordinance," grappling with how to formally structure the process. During a recent meeting, commissioners discussed whether to hold a formal public hearing or begin with a less formal public meeting to gather input on the ordinance proposed by Decorah Community for Immigrant Rights (DCIR), which has drawn interest from residents and advocacy groups. Several community members spoke during public comment, urging the commission to prioritize the issue. Speaker Rachael Button thanked commissioners for placing the ordinance on the agenda, calling it meaningful for those advocating for its consideration. The commission previously voted to pursue discussion of the ordinance and had planned a public hearing earlier this year, but that effort stalled after the body lost a quorum. At the meeting, much of the discussion focused on the distinction between a formal public hearing and a general public meeting. Commissioners were told that a hearing requires advance publication in a newspaper and must center on a specific proposed action. By contrast, a public meeting can be scheduled more flexibly and used to gather information and perspectives without committing to a formal recommendation. Commissioners ultimately leaned toward a two-step approach: first holding a public meeting to collect community input, followed later by a formal hearing if needed. The proposed ordinance relates to how local entities interact with federal immigration enforcement, though commissioners emphasized their role is not to decide policy directly but to evaluate whether the issue warrants a recommendation to the City Council. Discussion also highlighted the importance of including a wide range of perspectives. Commissioners expressed interest in inviting law enforcement and other officials whose work could be affected, while also acknowledging that some impacted individuals may not feel safe speaking publicly. They noted that written statements could serve as an alternative. Community members urged the commission to center those most affected by the ordinance, including individuals with limited ability to participate in public forums. "I hope that the goal is to center the human rights of those who might have the least amount of power," Button said. By the end of the discussion, the commission approved a motion to organize a public meeting with DCIR and interested parties to begin gathering input. Commissioners said the feedback collected will help determine whether to formally recommend that the Decorah City Council revisit the ordinance. No date for the public meeting was set during the session, but commissioners said they would coordinate scheduling and provide public notice. Be the first to know! Sign up for the free newsletter and unlock exclusive updates, breaking news, and tips from around the community.