Governor Ayotte Unaware of ICE Warehouse Plans by Her Department
New Hampshire Governor Maggie Ayotte recently expressed her surprise over the lack of information regarding the plans for an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) warehouse in Merrimack. Despite her inquiries to the federal government, she had not received confirmation of a new facility until last week.
Details of the ICE Warehouse Project
Public records released by the American Civil Liberties Union of New Hampshire (ACLU) reveal that Ayotte’s own state agency received thorough information about the project on January 12. The facility is set to occupy a sizable 324,000-square-foot warehouse located at 50 Robert Milligan Parkway.
Political Fallout
- Democratic lawmakers accused Governor Ayotte of withholding information.
- Republicans blamed the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources for not informing the governor.
- John Stephen, a Republican Executive Council member, called for an investigation into possible leaks.
Stephen claimed that one or more state employees might have leaked information to the ACLU instead of informing Ayotte. He characterized this as a serious failure to serve the public interest.
Response from State Officials
Sarah Stewart, Commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, defended her department during an emergency Executive Council meeting. She clarified that her staff’s failure to notify her about the ICE warehouse consultations and public records request was not intentional.
Stewart emphasized that there was “no intent to deceive” and committed to improving communication internally. She had not been aware of the public records request until contacted by Ayotte’s chief of staff following the ACLU’s press release.
Public Reaction and Local Concerns
The situation has sparked outrage among some local officials. Executive Councilor Janet Stevens described the circumstances as “an absolute disgrace” and expressed concern for residents of Merrimack.
The proposed ICE facility aims to serve as a processing center, part of a nationwide initiative to establish 16 centers intended to house between 500 to 1,500 detainees each. Local officials in Merrimack have raised alarms about the proposal, citing potential strain on local resources and financial burdens.
Governor Ayotte voiced her belief that local officials should have the chance to provide input on the project. She also expressed frustration over the lack of transparency from federal authorities regarding the warehouse’s plans.
Future Actions and Accountability
In light of the communication lapse, Ayotte has requested the state’s attorney general to investigate the circumstances surrounding the information sharing. She seeks to ensure that such issues do not recur in the future, emphasizing the need for improved transparency at all governmental levels.
