In a narrow 78-60 vote, Town Meeting adopted the Plymouth Community Trust Bylaw, which prohibits the use of town resources for civil immigration enforcement. Petitioner Peter Matlin argued that the bylaw codifies existing police policy, ensuring that future leadership cannot unilaterally change the town's stance on cooperating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for non-criminal matters.

Matlin and supporter Donna Curtain argued that the bylaw is essential for building trust within the immigrant community, making residents feel safe to report crimes without fear of deportation. Curtain called it a safeguard for constitutional values. However, the measure faced significant pushback from Police Chief Dana Flynn, who expressed concern that having a separate bylaw and department policy with slightly different wording would create confusion for his officers.

Chief Flynn stated that his department already refrains from civil immigration enforcement and argued the bylaw limits his ability to update policies in response to changing laws. Opponents like Carmen Lee Frieri also argued for continued cooperation between local and federal agencies for public safety. Despite the Chief's concerns, the measure passed, making the policy a permanent part of the town’s bylaws.

Motion: To adopt the bylaw.

Vote: Passed 78-60-3