Residents at town hall oppose proposed ICE facility in Upper Bern Township; commissioners pledge to seek more information
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Summary
A large town hall in Upper Bern Township drew robust opposition to a proposed ICE facility. Commissioners said they will press federal and state partners for information and the county sheriff agreed to provide deputies for public meetings.
Residents packed a recent town hall in Upper Bern Township to hear about a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, and commissioners told the Feb. 13 meeting they will pursue more information and provide support for local officials. Commissioner Dante Santoni called the town hall "raucous and exciting" and said many attendees expressed concern about potential local impacts.
Chairman Linebaugh said the turnout (about 100 people in a room that holds 150) exceeded expectations and that county staff engaged with local officials to help ensure public safety and transparency. Solicitor Christine Sadler contacted local officials and, with agreement from Sheriff Mandy Miller, the sheriff's office committed "at least two sheriff's deputies" to be present at the local meeting to assist with security, Linebaugh said.
Why it matters: A proposed federal facility in a small township raises local concerns about public safety, community impacts and the limits of county authority. Commissioners emphasized they cannot direct municipal decisions in Pennsylvania but committed to working with township solicitors, state and federal partners to gather information for residents.
Details: Commissioners said they would work to get clarity from federal partners about the facility's scope and to provide timely information to residents. Commissioner Santoni said the county will seek "information transparency" and work with state and federal partners. Linebaugh described the town hall as "the most unusual town hall" he has attended and thanked county staff and the sheriff's office for supporting the event.
Next steps: Commissioners said they will continue outreach to township officials and federal partners, post updates where appropriate, and support safety planning at public meetings.