Michigan Officials Fight Proposed ICE Detention Center in Romulus

Contentious ICE Detention Facility Plans in Michigan Prompt Local and State Pushback

In Michigan, a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Romulus, along with plans for ICE office space in Southfield, have ignited protests and legal battles. The development is part of a broader federal strategy involving the acquisition or leasing of warehouses for immigration enforcement purposes across the nation.

ROMULUS — State, local, and federal officials in Michigan are considering “all options” to prevent the establishment of a new immigrant detention facility in the Detroit metropolitan area. However, recent federal records imply that the Trump administration is set on proceeding with the project.

A federal regulatory assessment discovered this week reveals that the Department of Homeland Security intends to transform a 473,158-square-foot warehouse into a “secure operational area” on 19 acres in Romulus. This plan includes the addition of perimeter security fencing, wastewater improvements, and more. However, the project may require collaboration or permits from state and local officials, which some see as potential barriers to progress.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has formally requested that ICE cease the project, citing violations of state and federal laws and a lack of cooperation with local authorities.

“Our system of government and the law demand transparency and partnership with state and local governments,” Nessel wrote. “But ICE seems determined not just to ignore the need for such cooperation, but to frustrate it.”

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight declared at a city council meeting that he would not grant permits or occupancy certificates for the project during his tenure, highlighting the potential negative impact on the community.

Despite local objections, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement claims the Romulus facility will create 1,458 jobs and generate over $33 million in tax revenue, which they argue will benefit the community economically.

Meanwhile, a similar situation is unfolding in Southfield, where the federal government has leased space for ICE offices. Local officials are pressuring the property owner to cancel the lease agreement.

A National Trend

The controversy in Michigan mirrors a broader national trend, with ICE reportedly acquiring warehouses in at least 20 communities to convert into detention facilities as part of mass deportation efforts under the Trump administration.

Brayan Gutierrez

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Bridge Michigan

Local officials across the country have expressed frustration with the lack of transparency from the federal government. In many cases, including Michigan, communities have been caught off-guard by ICE’s plans.

An investigation by WIRED found that around 150 ICE-related purchases or leases are planned nationwide, often bypassing standard procurement processes due to “national security concerns.”

The federal floodplain review initially reported by Axios Detroit details plans to reopen a facility at 7525 Cogswell St. in Romulus, featuring enhanced security measures and outdoor recreational spaces.

Nessel, who recently launched a public form for residents to report “concerning behavior” by ICE, criticized the lack of communication and the potential environmental impact, noting the facility’s proximity to schools and a wetland.

While some argue for the economic benefits, others emphasize the need for accountability and adherence to local regulations.

Protests and Tensions

Protests erupted outside Romulus City Hall, with hundreds of attendees rallying against the proposed detention center. Tensions flared when a physical altercation occurred between protesters and counter-protesters, resulting in police intervention.

Following the demonstration, Romulus city council members unanimously passed a resolution opposing the facility, citing potential negative impacts on property values and community development.

Southfield officials also approved a resolution reaffirming their commitment to a “welcoming and inclusive community.”

REDICO, the Southfield property owner, clarified that the lease prohibits any law enforcement or detention activities on the premises.

National Implications

Other states, including New Hampshire and North Carolina, are also grappling with ICE’s facility plans. In New Hampshire, Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte announced that discussions with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem led to the cancellation of an ICE facility in Merrimack.

Local governments are exploring various strategies, such as permitting denials, to block or delay ICE expansions. However, federal authority may override local zoning laws in some instances.

US Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit, emphasized the importance of using every available tool to prevent the ICE facility from materializing. “We will not accept a new warehouse prison in Romulus to cage hundreds of our neighbors,” she stated.