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Santa Clara County Moves to Block Reported ICE Detention Site Near Gilroy

Local zoning could become a key test of federal power over immigration facilities.

Overview

  • County leaders and immigrant groups, following Thursday's rally in San José, pledged to stop a proposed ICE detention site just outside Gilroy.
  • County counsel said DHS secured a $26.5 million lease for about 24.5 acres at 7240 Holsclaw Road from Elmwood Capital Group, which appears in federal procurement and county property records tied to the site.
  • DHS has not confirmed any new facility at the location and said only that ICE is working to expand detention space.
  • Officials say the parcel is not zoned for detention use and they are preparing to sue, with the California attorney general coordinating with the county.
  • Observers reported workers putting up privacy fencing and removing greenhouses this week, heightening fear among local immigrant workers and families near the site and a nearby ICE office in Morgan Hill.