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3w ago

Howard County Bans Private Immigration Detention Centers, Halting Elkridge Plan

The emergency ordinance blocks permits for privately owned sites following a revoked renovation tied to ICE use.

Feb. 04, 2026: Standing room only at the ICE Public Hearing Wednesday at the Howard County Council meeting. (Marissa Yelenik/Staff)(Marissa Yelenik/Staff)
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore addresses questions about his upcoming election, the state and the upcoming legislative session.
U.S Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md. looks to the audience during the third annual Baltimore Together Summit workshops at Baltimore Center Stage. (Karl M. Ferron/Staff)
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Overview

  • The County Council voted unanimously to pass CB-16 as emergency legislation, immediately prohibiting permits for privately owned immigration detention facilities.
  • County Executive Calvin Ball had already revoked the renovation permit for 6522 Meadowridge Road in Elkridge after inspectors identified detainee processing buildouts.
  • Councilmembers also approved CB-17 to set procedures for county employees on responding to ICE actions at county facilities, with one member voting no on that companion bill.
  • An ICE spokesperson said the agency has no plans to open or purchase a facility in Howard County.
  • Legal experts and a councilmember cautioned the county’s ban could face federal preemption or be bypassed if the government buys the property or uses eminent domain.