U.S. Aims to Convert B.C. Billionaire’s Virginia Warehouse into ICE Facility
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering acquiring a warehouse in Virginia that belongs to Canadian billionaire Jim Pattison. This warehouse is intended to be transformed into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing facility. The DHS expressed its plans in a letter dated January 21 to officials in Hanover County, Virginia.
Details of the Proposed Facility
The warehouse spans approximately 550,000 square feet and has been owned by Jim Pattison Developments since 2022. According to the DHS letter, the conversion may involve significant modifications to the building. These changes could include the addition of holding and processing spaces for detainees.
Jim Pattison and His Business Ventures
- Jim Pattison is a prominent businessman from British Columbia.
- His company, the Jim Pattison Group, operates across various sectors, including real estate, media, and retail.
Pattison has previously garnered attention for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his sizeable donations to healthcare facilities in Canada. However, the news of the DHS’s interest in his Virginia property has sparked considerable backlash.
Community Reactions
Local leaders and community members have expressed strong disapproval of the proposed ICE facility. Among the critics is Emily Lowan, the leader of the B.C. Green Party, who has called for boycotts of Pattison’s Save-on-Foods grocery stores. The situation has intensified as the DHS seeks to expand its operations amid growing controversies surrounding its enforcement practices.
Concerns Regarding ICE’s Actions
ICE has faced severe criticism for its aggressive immigration enforcement. Recent events include heightened unrest in areas like Minneapolis, where agents were involved in fatalities. These actions have prompted discussions on the ethical responsibilities of companies and individuals regarding their associations with ICE.
Local Opposition
Michael Berdan, a Hanover County resident and immigration advocate, staunchly opposes the idea of an ICE facility in his community. He argues that establishing such a facility contradicts Pattison’s philanthropic principles and could negatively impact the local population.
Future Developments
The Hanover County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to review the potential acquisition of the warehouse on January 28. The DHS has also invited local tribes to participate in forthcoming consultations regarding this issue, aiming to address community concerns about the proposed facility.
