State of Texas Seizes Control of Shelby Park
The state of Texas has taken control of Shelby Park, a nearly 50-acre park on the banks of the Rio Grande in Eagle Pass, against the city’s wishes, according to Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas.
Preventing Illegal Crossings
Mayor Salinas stated in a video posted on Facebook that the Texas Department of Public Safety informed him that the state is assuming “full control” of Shelby Park to prevent unauthorized border crossings from Mexico into Texas.
An Unwanted Decision
In the video, Mayor Salinas made it clear that the city did not agree to this decision and did not request or desire it.
Restricted Access
The mayor’s images show that the entrance to the park has been blocked off with fencing and military vehicles, indicating the state’s takeover.
A Key Location in Border Policy
Shelby Park has been a central location for Governor Greg Abbott’s efforts to deter unlawful crossings. It serves as a staging area for the Texas National Guard and Texas DPS deployed to the border as part of Abbott’s Operation Lone Star.
Indefinite Control
Mayor Salinas was informed that the state is taking control of the park “indefinitely” under the governor’s border disaster declaration, which was renewed in December.
Access Limitations
During a conference, Mayor Salinas expressed his belief that U.S. Border Patrol Agents were being prevented from entering the area. He anticipated that this issue would be resolved between the federal and state governments.
Unconfirmed Claims
While the mayor made claims about restricted access for Border Patrol Agents, ABC News has not been able to independently verify these allegations.
No Response from Authorities
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Texas Military Department did not immediately respond to ABC News’ request for comments regarding the situation at Shelby Park.
Blame on President Biden
Gov. Abbott’s office released a statement shifting blame to President Joe Biden, stating that Texas is reinforcing its southern border with additional security measures to combat the high levels of illegal immigration caused by the administration’s border policies. The statement emphasized the state’s determination to respond to the ongoing border crisis.
Pursuing Legal Options
City officials are currently exploring legal options to regain control of Shelby Park.
Read More of this Story at abcnews.go.com – 2024-01-12 15:13:55
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