Tucson lawmaker calls on Border Patrol to review recommendations
U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords today praised the strong stance on border security contained in the final report of her Workgroup on Southern Arizona Checkpoints.
After months of deliberations, two workgroup subcommittees agreed that interior checkpoints must play a role in bolstering border security in Arizona. The workgroup also recommended a variety of enforcement strategies and tactics.
"This workgroup represents democracy at it best," said Giffords. "Concerned citizens, sharing ideas and insights in an open forum, dedicated to making our community a better place. I truly appreciate their commitment and hard work."
Giffords called on the Border Patrol’s Tucson Sector Chief to seriously review the report’s many excellent recommendations. "I am asking that he provide a detailed response to me as soon as possible," Giffords said.
The Tucson lawmaker received the workgroup’s 23-page final report today at a well-attended community meeting at Sahuarita High School. The document is the culmination of four months work by a group of Green Valley-area residents brought together by Giffords to examine the Border Patrol’s plans for a permanent checkpoint along Interstate 19.
While there are differences of opinion among workgroup members about how to secure Arizona’s border, Giffords said the open, inclusive process established by her workgroup is a valuable model for the future.
"Figuring out the best way to secure our border requires community involvement, creativity, determination, sacrifice, and the willingness to try new ideas," she said. "When smart minds and concerned citizens come together, the best results emerge."
More than 500 citizens from Giffords’ 8th Congressional District participated in four workgroup meetings since April. This high level of interest prompted Giffords to secure an agreement from Border Patrol Chief David Aguilar that no permanent checkpoint would be planned or constructed without significant and direct community involvement.
The 27 members of the workgroup included business leaders, law enforcement professionals and public officials. Among them was Green Valley resident Jim Woodbrey.
"Congresswoman Giffords did the right thing by forming this workgroup," the advanced technology consultant said. "She created a forum that allowed us to gain a better understanding of checkpoints and their impact on our community."