February 14, 2026
Friends, neighbors, and fellow Trojans,
Earlier this month, the council joined millions of Americans who are speaking out against the horror and violence perpetrated by ICE against Minneapolis and other cities, passing a resolution that condemns ICE's actions which trample on civil and human rights, and calls for reallocation of funding to community-centered immigration programs.
Late Friday afternoon, we learned Mayor Mantello is declining to endorse the resolution, instead deciding to remain silent on the egregious attacks on civil rights in America by masked federal agents.
As I have said previously, no matter your ideology, religion, political party, or background, we all must condemn ICE and demand an end to the violence. As a nation of immigrants, we can—and must—do more to protect the most vulnerable of us.
My full statement is below.
Onward,
Sue Steele
Council President
STATEMENT FROM COUNCIL PRESIDENT ON MAYOR'S FAILURE TO TAKE STAND ON ICE VIOLENCE IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Troy, New York (February 13, 2026) – Council President Sue Steele issued the following statement in response to Mayor Mantello's recent inaction on a resolution condemning ICE's actions that trample on civil and human rights, and calls for reallocation of funding to community-centered immigration programs.
"I am profoundly disappointed but not surprised by the mayor's indifference to the terror and harm inflicted on local communities by ICE. The resolution advanced by the council affirms what local leaders and everyday Americans are demanding everywhere: accountability for ICE violence and limiting funding and their coordination with local law enforcement on immigration matters.
"The Trump administration's lawless treatment of immigrants, permanent residents, and U.S. citizens is the moral issue of our time, and the mayor's failure to support civil and human rights in our country should raise alarm bells across our city. I urge Troy residents to continue to show up and speak out against this shameful lack of action by the mayor."
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Jan 14, 2026: Last week, the administration confirmed the $6 million bond for improvements at Frear Park was drafted incorrectly. The council is considering next steps.
Nov. 4, 2025: Troy voters overwhelmingly elected a new 7-member Democratic majority to the city council.