Tonight, the Albany County Legislature voted down an ineffective and intentionally-divisive effort meant to survey the impact of “newly arrived persons” in Albany County. The stated intent of this resolution is to document the impact asylum-seekers, individuals experiencing homelessness, and migrants have on County departments like Social Services. While the influx of asylum- seekers is pressing and demands our time, resources, and energy, there is no way to track the services provided in this way.

Instead of passing this resolution and directing County departments to provide data that does not exist and does not account for the positive impacts these individuals will have on their communities, the Legislature will instead continue to welcome these asylum-seekers while encouraging the state and federal governments to provide financial assistance and guidance to ensure the best outcomes possible. Performative measures such as this one, which does nothing to help those seeking refuge in our communities nor help the County provide for these individuals, will not be endured.