Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar continued the dialogue on the controversial border fence with Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Ralph Basham.   Commissioner Basham reiterated commitments made by the leadership of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to Congressman Cuellar that final decisions on fence construction would be subject to consultation with landowners, as well as state and local officials. 

Rep. Cuellar insisted that DHS and CBP work with the local communities before making any final decisions. In response, the Commissioner outlined his intention to reach out directly to state and local officials to emphasize the importance of their input in any fence construction process, and to clear up misconceptions and inaccuracies which have appeared in the press. Congressman Cuellar was assured that the fence lines were not set in concrete and DHS and CBP were still in the outreach process.

“I will continue to work closely with officials from both DHS and CBP to help ensure that the interests of the citizens in our border towns are represented in Washington.  The opinions of the people who live and work at the international border in Texas will be heard at the federal level,” said Cuellar.

Commissioner Basham stated he was optimistic that the ongoing dialogue will bring a balance between operational necessities for homeland security, while catering to the individual concerns and desires of local communities. Basham stated he would continue to have an open line of communication with Congressman Cuellar as the outreach process moves forward.  

“Finding the most efficient, economic and beneficial solution at the border remains one of my top priorities.  I look forward to continued cooperation and communication between our local residents and officials and the federal government,” said Cuellar.
 

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.
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