An ICE detention center in Roxbury? Town council doesn’t want it
A Washington Post story claimed warehouses in Roxbury were on a government list for a new 500-1,500-bed ICE facility.
A Morris County town is reportedly being considered for a new ICE processing or detention center, but some don’t want to see it on their watch.
There are two immigrant detention centers in New Jersey: Newark and Elizabeth. A Washington Post story claimed warehouses in Roxbury were on a government list for a new 500-1,500-bed ICE facility.
The township says it’s heard nothing from the federal government about this. The council unanimously passed a resolution Tuesday night opposing this plan.
“The safety and protection of our residents, their property and their services have always been and will continue to be this council's highest priority," said Mayor Shawn Potillo (R).
They say the town does not have the water, sewage or public safety resources for this. Others in the meeting room objected for humanitarian or political reasons.
Recent protests over the weekend and at past council meetings have brought to light the concerns of residents and others who live nearby.
There was also news out of Newark’s ICE detention center - Delaney Hall - on Tuesday.
Tents and public restrooms were installed there for visitors. The Essex county executive says this is for the visitors’ protection and dignity. Visitors there can be subject to long wait times outside the 1,000-bed facility in all weather conditions.
