by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Following the chronicled arrest of undocumented workers from the new courthouse construction site and subsequent discussion during the Oct. 13 City Council meeting, actions regarding employment verification were taken by both City, contractor and subcontractor officials to ensure worker eligibility.
It was the first big issue to arise since construction began in May said Council member Kevin Hyde, who serves as chair of the Special Courthouse Committee, but it’s now come to a close.
Hyde recently sent Council members a memorandum and detailed timeline of the events that resulted in additional documentation for onsite workers to complete along with subcontractors and contractors agreeing to use an “E-Verify” system for verification.
Since sending it, Hyde said he’s heard nothing from his Council peers or the public regarding the issue – a positive.
“It’s a good thing,” he said, “because the issue is essentially done and I think the City has done a good job (resolving it).”
According to Hyde’s timeline, the City “rebadged” 240 workers currently on the jobsite after they completed the new personal information sheets and passed the verification process – actions the City required as of Oct. 20, with information supplemental to the standard I-9 form.
Both resolving the issue and showing the public it’s taken care of were important to Hyde and the courthouse committee.
“It’s (important)” said Hyde. “We’re making all reasonable efforts to enforce the laws ... especially with a City funded construction project like the courthouse.”
There are no further plans for the courthouse committee to meet on the undocumented worker issue, according to Hyde’s memo, but it will continue to receive reports regarding compliance and any additional violations.
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