© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Refugee Shelter Proposal Tears Alma Community Apart As Vote On Rezoning Nears

Brett Dahlberg
/
WCMU
Debate over a shelter for young asylum-seekers has dominated local government meetings in Alma this summer. The city is scheduled to vote on the issue Tuesday.

Alma, Mich., is 1,500 miles from America’s southern border, but the city of 9,000 people is being torn apart by a debate over immigration.

The city commission is set to vote Tuesday on whether to approve a shelter for young people who crossed the border without their families. Whatever decision the city makes, it’s going to leave part of its population disappointed and angry.

Some city leaders say regardless of the vote's outcome, they're expecting a lawsuit.

Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!