SALT LAKE CITY – Mayor Jenny Wilson of Salt Lake County has publicly expressed her opposition to a potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center that may be established in her jurisdiction. In a statement released over the weekend, Wilson emphasized her commitment to preventing the facility from being built, highlighting concerns from various community members, including business leaders and elected officials across the political spectrum. The controversy erupted recently when activists raised alarms about a possible location for the detention center, reportedly a warehouse situated at the intersection of 6800 West and 1000 North, just west of Salt Lake City International Airport. While the possibility of an ICE facility remains unconfirmed, local residents and organizations have voiced significant apprehension regarding the implications of such a development. On-site investigations by FOX 13 News revealed a notable presence of black SUVs parked outside the warehouse, with individuals inside the building who declined to provide information, stating they were there for a 'site visit.' This lack of transparency has only fueled speculation and concern among community members about the intentions behind the location. Mayor Wilson stated, "I have been working non-stop to understand how and why this proposal is moving forward in our community. At this point, there are still more questions than answers." Her comments reflect a broader unease within the community, as residents seek clarity on the future of the facility and its potential impact. Reports from The Salt Lake Tribune indicate that the warehouse in question is owned by The Ritchie Group, a real estate development firm based in Millcreek. Activists opposing the project claim that a leaked document from the Department of Homeland Security suggests the planned facility could house up to 7,500 detainees. This figure raises alarms, especially considering that it would be triple the current inmate population in the Salt Lake County Jail and exceed the total number of inmates currently held within the Utah Department of Corrections system. In addition to the mayor's concerns, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall's office has also weighed in on the matter. Mendenhall sent a letter to Ryan Ritchie, co-founder of The Ritchie Group, expressing serious logistical reservations regarding the suitability of the building to support a large population. Her letter stated, "The area’s utility system has been built specifically for warehouse use, not high occupancy, and there are downstream constraints. We do not have the public utilities infrastructure to serve a large residential population. If you intend to lease the building, please note that all of these concerns would need to be addressed before receiving an occupancy permit." The potential establishment of an ICE detention center in Salt Lake County raises significant questions about the social, economic, and infrastructural impact on the local community. Mayor Wilson articulated the fears of many residents, stating, "An opposition coalition is forming quickly, and it reflects widespread unease about ICE's aggressive and unchecked conduct nationwide, and the instability detention facilities often bring to surrounding communities. A detention center of this magnitude would bring disruption, strain local resources, and harm the economic and social fabric of our community." The mayor's statement was echoed by various members of the community who are increasingly alarmed about what the presence of such a facility could mean for the area. With a growing coalition opposing the proposed center, Wilson has vowed to explore every available legal and policy avenue to prevent its establishment. She noted that this includes engaging in land-use authority discussions, regulatory reviews, and coordination with local partners. Wilson concluded her remarks by advocating for comprehensive immigration reform, asserting, "I support meaningful federal immigration reform including a secure and orderly border, clear enforcement standards, and a practical path to citizenship. Those decisions belong in Congress, not through the siting of massive detention centers that destabilize local communities." As the situation develops, residents and officials in Salt Lake County remain vigilant, seeking clarity and transparency regarding the proposed ICE detention center. The outcome of this controversy could have lasting implications for the community, affecting not only the local infrastructure but also the social dynamics and overall well-being of Salt Lake City residents. With mounting opposition, the future of the potential ICE facility remains uncertain as community leaders and activists continue to rally against its establishment.