Escondido Council Keeps ICE Firing-Range Deal After Hours of Protest

Overview

• After a five-hour meeting packed with opponents, a bid to terminate the city’s range-sharing agreement with ICE failed and the contract remains in effect.
• The deal, signed in 2024, totals $67,500 over three years and permits up to 200 ICE agents to train on up to 20 days annually.
• Police officials said Escondido only provides access to the outdoor range and facilities, while ICE supplies its own firearms, targets and personnel.
• Organizers reported more than 2,500 petition signatures, about 200 protesters addressed the council, and 33 regional officials urged cancellation over community trust and safety concerns.
• City officials warned that ending the contract could invite legal action, cancellation costs or jeopardize up to $1 million in federal grants, though they noted a no-penalty cancellation clause exists.