We, the residents of Orange County and concerned Floridians, stand with Commissioner Nicole Wilson in calling for a halt to the proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility at 8660 Transport Drive in east Orlando.

This proposed facility is not only out of step with our community’s values—it’s a threat to our region’s economic future and environmental well-being. East Orlando is a growing hub of tourism, mixed-use development, and family-friendly communities. The presence of a federal detention center risks harming our public image, undermining the hospitality sector that millions depend on, and permanently altering the character of our neighborhoods.

This warehouse-turned-detention-center could be approved without adequate community input, public transparency, or local control—especially if the federal government invokes the Supremacy Clause to override zoning laws. But we refuse to stay silent while decisions are made behind closed doors.

Beyond land use and economic concerns, ICE detention centers across the country have been repeatedly cited for inhumane conditions, medical neglect, prolonged isolation, and abuse. Numerous investigations have found that detainees—many of whom have not been convicted of any crime—face unjust treatment, unsanitary environments, and violations of basic human rights. This is not the kind of institution we want rooted in our city.

We echo the commissioner’s call for a temporary moratorium on privately operated detention facilities in Orange County, modeled after Kansas City’s five-year ban. We also urge the City of Orlando to join the county in opposing the ICE facility and to stand by the original development vision for this annexed land, which did not include a detention center.

We call on Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, the Board of County Commissioners, and the Orlando City Council to publicly oppose the ICE facility at Beachline Logistics Center and take every lawful step available to prevent its construction.

Sign to support Commissioner Wilson’s stand—and help protect our community’s values, economy, and identity.