Milwaukee Alderwoman Says Plan Exists for ICE Detention Center on the Northwest Side

MILWAUKEE, Wis (Civic Media) — An apparent plan from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to establish a detention facility on Milwaukee’s northwest side has sparked opposition from local officials and community groups.

Alderwoman Larresa Taylor announced Tuesday that ICE has requested modifications to a building at 11925 W. Lake Park Drive, including the addition of a sally port and chain-link fencing with privacy slats. Taylor expressed strong opposition to the proposal, stating, “We do not support any such modifications to any building in our district as a location to house prisoners.”

The Democratic Party of Milwaukee County (DPMC) has joined in opposing the facility, thanking Taylor for informing the public and calling for real immigration reform. The DPMC emphasized the contributions of immigrants to the community and warned that ICE’s expansion could signal plans for mass deportations under the new administration. They urged elected officials aligned with the Democratic Party to use all legal means to implement just immigration reform and oppose mass deportations.

Taylor has scheduled a news conference for Wednesday at 1 p.m. outside the proposed facility to address community concerns. ICE has not yet responded to requests for comment.