ICE Acquires Facility in Romulus Amidst Local Opposition
In a recent development, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has acquired a building in Romulus, Wayne County, with intentions to convert it into a detention center. The planned facility is set to comply with ICE’s “regular detention standards” and is described as “well-structured” by an ICE spokesperson.
ICE assured that prior to purchasing the site, comprehensive community impact studies and a detailed due diligence process will be conducted. This is to ensure local utilities and infrastructure are not adversely affected, as was communicated in a statement to Michigan Public.
Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight revealed through a Facebook post that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has verbally confirmed the acquisition of the building at 7525 Cogswell. “A detention center for any purpose is not permitted and will be opposed by the City of Romulus at all levels,” McCraight stated.
While the facility is projected to generate 1,458 jobs and over $33 million in tax revenue for the area, the response from local officials and residents has been mixed. The ICE spokesperson highlighted that these economic contributions are in addition to the enhanced safety perceived by removing criminals from the streets.
State Representative Dylan Wegela (D-Garden City) expressed concerns from the community regarding ICE’s expansion in Romulus. In his Facebook post, Wegela criticized the federal government’s clandestine planning, saying, “Shame on the federal government for planning in secret and coming to our community without notifying anyone at the Congressional, state, or local level.” He further stated, “Let us be clear, we do not want ICE in Romulus,” and called for the dissolution of ICE.
Echoing Wegela’s sentiments, State Senator Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) issued a press release urging action against the detention center. Camilleri remarked, “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.”
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