Lehigh County officials have issued a strong appeal to local warehouse owners, urging them not to permit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to utilize their facilities for detention purposes. In an open letter dated February 6, 2024, county leaders expressed concern over the historical record of ICE detention facilities, citing serious human rights issues, including inadequate medical care, allegations of abuse, and fatalities in custody.
The letter highlights that federal authorities have recently acquired warehouse spaces in nearby counties for the purpose of housing immigrants. Notably, on February 2, 2024, the Trump administration purchased a nearly 520,000-square-foot facility in Berks County, as reported by PennLive.com. Additional plans for a substantial detention center in Schuylkill County have also been mentioned by local officials, according to WNEP.
Community Values at Stake
The county executives who signed the letter—County Executive Josh Seigel, Controller Mark Pinsley, and Lehigh County Board of Commissioners Chair Geoff Brace—emphasized that establishing an ICE facility in Lehigh County would contradict the community’s commitment to dignity, humanity, and mutual respect. Officials from the cities of Allentown and Bethlehem, along with representatives from Lower Macungie Township and South Whitehall Township, also supported the statement. School board directors from East Penn, Parkland, and Southern Lehigh districts joined the call.
The letter underscores the area’s long-standing ties to the immigrant community and urges local industry leaders to foster an inclusive environment. “While local officials work to ensure that land use aligns with our regional priorities, goals, and values, federal authority can supersede local zoning, making partnership with the business community essential,” the officials noted.
Call for Responsible Business Practices
The letter encourages business leaders to reflect on the long-term implications of their relationships within Lehigh County. “We encourage businesses to consider that their relationships and long-term interests in Lehigh County extend well beyond any single transaction,” the officials stated.
Despite the concerns raised, ICE officials did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment regarding the situation. As the debate continues, Lehigh County’s stance highlights a broader conversation about immigration policies and the role of local businesses in shaping the community’s future.
