Mesa Gateway Airport Authority’s executive director wants answers following media reports of overcrowding at an ICE facility there.
On April 28, Mesa Gateway Airport Authority’s executive director, J Brian O’Neill, sent an email to the company leasing the building — he said the reports of overcrowding were “very concerning.”
The building being used to house detainees has a maximum capacity of 203 people.
The Arizona Mirror reports the facility has housed upwards of 700 people in a single day.
The city of Mesa told KJZZ that it's aware of the concerns. However, city officials said its ability to enforce local building and occupancy requirements is limited because immigration enforcement and detention operations are federal responsibilities.
The city of Mesa provided the following statement:
“The City of Mesa is aware of reports regarding conditions at the Arizona Removal Operations Coordination Center (AROCC) located at Mesa Gateway Airport, including concerns about occupancy levels.
“Earlier this year, the Fire Marshal provided recommendations consistent with applicable safety standards following observed occupancy concerns. A routine inspection conducted on April 23 did not identify any fire code violations. As with any facility, conditions can change, and the City responds to new information as it becomes available.
“The City is aware that the Mesa Gateway Airport Authority has communicated with the property owner regarding occupancy concerns. Immigration enforcement and detention operations are federal responsibilities and are not within the City’s jurisdiction. The City’s ability to enforce local building and occupancy requirements at this facility is limited under applicable law.
“The City expects facilities operating within the community to adhere to applicable safety standards intended to protect occupants. The City will continue to coordinate with appropriate federal partners, consistent with its role and authority.”
