ICE Warehouse Purchase in Salt Lake City Suspended

The planned purchase of a warehouse in Salt Lake City by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been paused, according to reports. This suspension is part of a broader review of contracts signed under former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Nationwide Review of ICE Contracts

The Associated Press reported that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reviewing all contracts for the purchase of 11 warehouses totaling $1.074 billion. The Salt Lake City location is among those affected by the review.

Planned Mega-Detention Center

Last month, ICE confirmed its intention to convert the warehouse, located west of Salt Lake City International Airport, into a large detention center. The facility was projected to house up to 10,000 people.

Local Concerns and Opposition

The proposed detention center has faced criticism from several local and state leaders. Concerns center around humanitarian issues, as well as the potential strain on city resources and increased traffic congestion.

Leadership Response

Utah Governor Cox has expressed frustration over the lack of prior notification regarding the warehouse purchase. He stated the lack of communication was “frustrating.”

Transition in Homeland Security Leadership

The pause in warehouse purchases comes shortly after Markwayne Mullin was sworn in as the new Homeland Security Secretary. He replaced Kristi Noem, who was removed from her post in March by President Donald Trump.

DHS Statement on Review

The Department of Homeland Security stated, “as with any transition, we are reviewing agency policies and proposals.” Director Mullin, during his confirmation hearing, expressed a desire to “work with community leaders” and “be good partners.”

Salt Lake City Mayor's Concerns

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall met with ICE officials, including Charles Wall, Deputy Director for ICE, and Tim Kaiser, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Director of ICE, last week to voice her concerns. During the meeting, she was informed that ICE anticipated beginning work on the warehouse site “in the weeks and months ahead.”

National Scope of ICE Purchases

The Salt Lake City warehouse is one of eleven properties reportedly purchased by ICE across the country. Hundreds of people gathered to protest the purchase of the Salt Lake City warehouse.