The letter below was sent to both the county mayor and all the county commissioners last month asking for more information on McMinn’s relationship with ICE. A group of concerned citizens will be attending the next meeting next week (Monday, April 20th @ 6pm) for a response to our concerns. If you have a similar interest on this subject, please join the meeting with us.

Southern Progressives

March 3rd, 2026

As the increasing ICE activities are displayed in the media, there is also a corresponding concern by the citizens of McMinn county around the relationship with ICE here in our own county.

According to recent articles, McMinn county has a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with ICE which is a formal voluntary agreement with ICE and state and local law enforcement agencies, allowing deputized officers to perform specific, limited federal immigration enforcement functions. All of which raises some questions:

1. There are three enforcement models in the 287(g) Program, Jail Enforcement Model, Task Force Model, Warrant Service Officer Program Model. Which models do Mcminn county and local enforcement officers enforce with ICE? Is there a cost to the county providing these services?

 2. How many of our local and county enforcement officers are deputized and partnering with ICE to enforce these federal immigration laws? What kind of specialized training is being required? Are there reporting requirements as to the effectiveness of the program? Are these reports available to the public?

3. With the increasing number of immigrants being detained, there is an increasing need for detention centers. Are there any agreements of a detention facility in McMinn County? If approached by ICE to establish a detention facility in McMinn County what would be your answer?

4. Is there a copy of the Memorandum of Agreement available to the public?

Along with the increase of ICE activities in the country, there is also an increase in protests. Are there guidelines as to what is required by protesters as they follow and monitor the enforcement of ICE agents performing their tasks? 

Many concerned citizens want to work with both the County Commissioners, as well as county and local law enforcement to have a clear understanding of our relationship with ICE and its enforcement requirements as well as safety requirements for the corresponding protests they may draw. We look forward to your response to our questions at your April meeting, which  we will be attending.

Early Voting Details in McMinn County, TN

Early voting in McMinn County allows eligible voters to cast their ballots in person before the official Election Day. Here are the key details:

Voting Period

• Start Date: April 15, 2026

• End Date: April 30, 2026

Voting Location

• Where to Vote:

  • McMinn County Election Commission Office

  • Address: 6 E Madison Ave, Athens, TN

Polling Hours

Important Information

• Voters do not need an excuse to vote early.

• It is essential to have a federal or state-issued photo identification to vote.

• Early voting provides a convenient option to avoid crowds on Election Day.

Make sure to participate in early voting to ensure your voice is heard!