Councilman voices concerns about illegal immigrants on town job sites

All in favor… ”si”

The idea of using illegal immigrants for work surfaced at the Crested Butte Town Council meeting on Monday, April 5. While the council was preparing to approve a contract for renovation of the Old Town Hall bathrooms, councilperson John Wirsing broached the subject.

Looking over the standard “Services Agreement” that accompanies such contracts, Wirsing voiced concern with the “Immigration Compliance” section of the document.
“How do we make sure the general contractor and all the sub-contractors and all their subs are in compliance?” he asked.
Town Manager Susan Parker and Town Attorney John Belkin said the responsibility was that of the general contractor but the town always keeps an eye on such things. They explained that if such a situation occurred, the contract with the general contractor would likely be terminated and, depending on the situation, penalties could be imposed.
“It’s a common practice to have illegal workers on job sites and I’ve seen it here since I’ve been on the council,” Wirsing said.
“You’ve seen it on a town job?” asked Parker. “If you see it, you have to tell us. If you see it and don’t tell us, then shame on you.”
“I thought I had made it clear at the time,” said Wirsing. “Next time I’m aware of that situation, I’ll put it in writing and pursue it.”
While Parker asked for specifics about Wirsing’s charge, he said he couldn’t document specific time and places.
Parker said they would monitor the situation to make sure that all workers hired would be legal.
The council then agreed to award the bathroom renovation job to Gordon Bray Construction for $40,000. They want the job started and completed by Memorial Day. The council voted unanimously in favor of the contract with councilperson Dan Escalante voting “si.”