Los Alamitos rejects CA state sanctuary law

(FOX 11) - Los Alamitos Council members voted 4-1 to ignore California sanctuary laws Monday night. Reactions ranged from upset to elated -- with one person saying today felt better than the day Trump became President.

"They are asserting their right to ensure the constitutional remains the main law of the land," said Arthur Schaper.

The vote opts out of SB-54, a law which limits cooperation between law enforcement and immigration authorities.

Many showed up to protest the vote, deeply disturbed a vote was even taking place.

"What we don't understand what we fear we kill. And that's what we're doing we're killing the spirit of this nation which is American," said Joanne Abuqartoumy.

The vote was initially delayed after hours of contentious public comment while angry while angry protests took place outside.

Reverand Samuel Pullen was confused as to why his city was picking this battle.

"I don't think there's a large undocumented presence which begs the question: why is the council trying to make a big deal out of something that isn't a big deal in the community," said Pullen.

Others hoping a council vote may inspire other cities to take similar steps.

"Illegal immigration affects everyone everywhere even if it affects a small population in a city," said Schaper.

By law there has to be a second reading, which will take place a month from now. But many feel really confident the ordinance will pass again.