Local officials in Flagstaff say ICE is now leasing office space at an industrial building within city limits.
In an April 7 press release, officials with the city and the Flagstaff Police Department say Immigration and Customs Enforcement has confirmed a lease agreement for two suites at 1585 S. Plaza Way, a large office complex on the city’s west side.
The officials say they’re trying to get more information about the scope and nature of activities planned there, but have so far not received requests from ICE to use city property. That request, the press release said, would be reviewed by the city manager’s office in accordance with a new city directive.
“We have proactively reached out to federal agencies to request additional information on the scope and nature of ICE’s planned activities in Flagstaff,” the release read. “We have also asked that ICE share accurate and timely information directly with the public to keep our community informed.”
Eva Putzova, with the advocacy group Keep Flagstaff Together, says the lack of information is causing fear in immigrant communities — families may stay home from work or other activities.
“I think it’s going to make it much harder for people to make a living, and kids will be missing school, because obviously the parents will be very cautious,” she said. “Our current concern is that ICE will be detaining people there and they won’t care about the conditions they’re holding people in.”
An ICE spokeswoman did not respond to questions about its plans for the site.
“Once we have a statement, we will be sure you receive it,” the spokeswoman, Yasmeen Pitts O’Keefe, said in an email.
Earlier this month, the Department of Homeland Security put out a call for vendors to provide office space in multiple US cities — including eight in Arizona.
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