HOLYOKE — A resolution to protect Holyoke’s federal funding re-ignited a ideological firestorm this week, as city councilors clashed over immigration policy, public perception and political theater before voting to withdraw the measure.

With police standing guard and emotions running high, Holyoke’s City Council voted 7-6 vote Tuesday to withdraw the resolution that would have formally declared the city is not a sanctuary city, a safe haven for immigrants without proper federal documentation.

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