1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

Berks Countians recently learned that the Department of Homeland Security quietly purchased an industrial warehouse for $87 million to convert it into an ICE detention facility.  There was no public notice, no consultation, and no opportunity for community input. That lack of transparency has rightly raised serious concern. Berks Countians oppose the development of an ICE detention center in Upper Bern Township for many reasons. We may not agree on everything, but we are united in this: we do not want ICE detention in Berks County.     •    The township and county would lose significant tax revenue because DHS is exempt from local property taxes.
    •    The facility would strain local infrastructure—water, sewer, electricity, and transportation—while lowering nearby property values.
    •    DHS and ICE operate with limited transparency and accountability. Our community deserves to know what is happening in our own backyard.
    •    An ICE presence would disrupt neighborhood stability, undermine public safety, and create fear among many of our friends, families, and neighbors. This proposed detention facility is 10 miles from my home. This literally brings home the issues confronting us as a nation.