OBP006160

Fence Outreach Talking Points

Key message

We have taken into account the Secure Fence Act and the operational
assessments by the local Border Patrol Agents and Chiefs to create a starting
point for discussions on where we think we need fence. We are beginning the
dialogue with State and Local stakeholders, including landowners, to find a
solution that balances the need for the security of our borders with the needs of
those that live in the border communities. We value the input we will receive
through this process and our Secretary has stressed to us that he values that
input as well. We remain committed to going through this collaborative process
before we make any final decisions.
Follow-on points

 Through SBInet, DHS will field the most effective proven technology,
infrastructure, staffing, and response platforms, and integrate them into a
single comprehensive border security suite for the department. This
comprehensive suite will be implemented along the entire Southern border,
and adjusted for the most efficient and effective deployment for each border
mile.

 While fencing is an important component of our effort to secure U.S. borders,

we recognize the potential impact that fencing could have on your
communities.

 We recognize the impact that illegal cross border activity has on our border
communities and on landowners on the border.

 We are wholly committed to speaking with you and other members of the
community to work through any fencing issues and concerns.

 We value the existing partnerships in the border communities with our CBP
officers and agents and want to continue that sense of partnership in our
discussions regarding fence.

What to watch out for

It is too early to discuss eminent domain and environmental waivers. We

want to listen to the local community and work to find a mutually agreeable
solution. It is to our benefit to be good members of the communities where we
live and work.

Do not get definite on where fence will be built. DHS committed to having
370 miles of fence along the 2000 miles of the SWB. We are working to find the
right locations based on operational needs and community input.