Oregon Democrats are expressing significant concern regarding the potential establishment of a new Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility near Portland. This reaction follows a stern warning from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who hinted at possible federal action after a challenging meeting with state officials. During this October meeting, which included Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, Noem described the officials as “disingenuous.” Her remarks indicated federal plans to proceed with facility acquisitions in the Portland area. “If we have to do it the hard way… we will,” she declared, suggesting that the federal government is serious about its intentions.
Now, a municipal airport in Newport, located along the Oregon coast about 100 miles from Portland, has come into focus as a potential site for this detention facility. Local officials mentioned they are collaborating with state and federal legislators to clarify details regarding this project and its implications for public safety. However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not provided comments, leaving many unanswered questions in the community.
The response from local leaders has been swift and pointed. Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, described the prospect of DHS independently deciding to establish an ICE facility in Newport as “alarming and asinine.” Meanwhile, Newport’s Mayor Jan Kaplan emphasized that the community’s core values and public well-being come first. He reported receiving feedback from residents indicating fears about visiting Newport, with some concerned about the possibility of being “hauled into the street” by ICE officials. Kaplan also warned that increased vehicular traffic due to the proposed facility might lead to additional issues for the community.
There are also signs of potential operational activity tied to a new facility. A letter from a Texas-based workforce housing company indicated a proposal to lease a 4.3-acre parcel at the Newport airport to the federal government for operational support. The plans suggest the construction of temporary facilities, complete with a 12-foot fence and controlled access points.
Calls for transparency are also emerging from state government. Representative David Gomberg, the second-ranking Democrat in the Oregon House and a representative for Newport, has demanded that DHS clarify its intentions. “Explain your intentions and let the public know what you’re planning,” he urged. Gomberg seeks a respectful discussion and has called for local citizens to refrain from harassing U.S. Coast Guard personnel currently stationed on the federal property at the airport.
This situation illustrates a growing divide between federal intentions and local governance. As discussions evolve, the conflict highlights the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement and community values in Oregon.
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