Community Outcry Over Proposed Detention Center Prompts Petition in Surprise
The city of Surprise has become the focal point of a heated debate following the revelation of plans to construct an immigration detention center near a chemical storage site. In response, a petition has been launched to disincorporate the city, highlighting concerns over safety and communication.
Activist Jeremy Helfgot spearheaded the petition, emphasizing a significant communication gap between the city officials and the community. Helfgot expressed his frustration, stating, “I would much rather see the elected leaders of Surprise stand up and do something, even take a meeting with community members so we can talk about the situation.”
Helfgot’s primary concern revolves around the potential health risks posed by the center’s proximity to the chemical facility, affecting both future detainees and local residents. To transfer control to Maricopa County, the initiative necessitates gathering 70,000 signatures.
According to Helfgot, city officials, including Mayor Kevin Sartor and the City Council, have not addressed public concerns about safety and hazards associated with the facility’s proposed location. He remarked, “Mayor Kevin Sartor and the members of his City Council have refused every public inquiry regarding safety and hazards in connection with this facility and its location.”
Helfgot urges Surprise to emulate other cities nationwide that have resisted similar Department of Homeland Security acquisitions. As of now, the city’s administration has yet to address the petition publicly.
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