Rumors of Romulus ICE facility are confirmed
Plans for a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in the City of Romulus have been confirmed by the federal agency.
Local and state officials have expressed their concern and disapproval of the plans to house about 500 detainees at the building located at 7525 Cogswell Road in the city. The building is about 6 miles from Detroit Metro Airport and was formerly used as a Home Depot distribution warehouse.
Romulus Mayor Robert A. McCraight said in a Facebook post representatives from Homeland Security verbally confirmed the federal government had secured the building, though the city had not received formal written notice.
"We are also working with legal counsel to determine what authority we have in this matter," McCraight said. He added that he was speaking to officials "at all levels" telling them that a detention center is not permitted and will be opposed by the city.
“Instead of this building bringing jobs to Romulus, it is being occupied by a rogue federal agency. Let us be clear, we do not want ICE in Romulus,” McCraight said in a statement.
The building is posted as "U.S. Government Property - No Trespassing." signs.
State Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) is pushing back against the planned detention facility
“Let’s call this ICE facility what it really is — an ill-constructed jail that would enable ICE to further terrorize our immigrant communities across Southeast Michigan.” Camilleri said in a statement.
He added that he was working with local, state, and federal leaders to keep the facility from opening.
“Make no mistake; ICE is not creating this detention center to keep our communities safe. This facility will undermine the work of our local law enforcement, ship in masked agents, and foment chaos throughout our region,” Camilleri said.
The agency said the Romulus facility and its construction are expected to generate 1,458 jobs, nearly $150 million in economic activity and more than $33 million in projected tax revenue.
ICE also said sites undergo community impact studies to ensure there is no hardship on local utilities or infrastructure before a purchase is made.
Area residents have responded to that statement and have mobilized against the detention center.
Organizers have scheduled a meeting from 5:30 until 7:30 Monday, Feb. 23 at Romulus City Hall to plan action protesting the detention center. The meeting will be followed by the regular Romulus City Council meeting.
