Howard County lawmakers propose higher tax on ICE detention facility in Elkridge

Howard County officials are seeking to impose a higher property tax rate on the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility planned for Elkridge, according to WBFF. This proposal follows a federal judge's decision allowing the facility's construction to proceed despite county efforts to block it.

The ICE facility involves relocating from Baltimore City to a privately owned office building in Howard County. The county previously revoked a building permit for the project, citing the need for a more comprehensive review process for detention centers, as reported by WYPR.

State Senator Clarence Lam and Delegate Gabriel Moreno introduced legislation that would grant Howard County the authority to set a special, higher property tax rate on secure confinement facilities, including the ICE center. Supporters argue the facility could increase demands on local police and emergency services, and that local taxpayers should not bear these costs.

Opponents, including Republican Delegate candidate Fitzgerald Mofor, contend that the higher tax might be passed on to the federal government through the lease, potentially negating the intended financial impact on the detention facility. The debate reflects differing views on how best to respond to the ICE facility's presence in the county.

Howard County continues to appeal the federal judge's ruling that allowed the project to move forward. Meanwhile, local lawmakers are pursuing legislative avenues to address concerns related to the facility's operation and financial impact on the community.