By Shirleen Guerra | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – County officials in Virginia say they oppose a federal plan to purchase a warehouse along Lakeridge Parkway for use as a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement processing facility.
In Hanover County, land-use concerns, potential strain on county services and the loss of local tax revenue are being cited.
The issue stems from a Jan. 21 letter from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security notifying the county of ICE’s intent to purchase and rehabilitate a privately owned warehouse at 11525 Lakeridge Parkway in Ashland. County officials said the proposal was not initiated by Hanover County and that local leaders were not consulted during the site-selection process.
The letter outlines potential upgrades to support ICE operations, including interior modifications for holding and processing areas, office space, visitor areas and health care rooms. Exterior improvements could include fencing, lighting and security features.
Homeland Security said all construction and staging would occur on site.
Following a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, county officials released a formal statement opposing the proposed purchase.
Supervisors said the location is inconsistent with current surrounding uses and could place unplanned demands on county services, including public safety.
In the county’s statement, Board Chairman Sean Davis said the proposed use does not align with long-standing planning decisions.
“A DHS facility at this property on Lakeridge Parkway is not consistent with the established land use for this business, residential and commerce area,” Davis said.
County officials also pointed to the potential financial impact of the proposal. In their statement, supervisors said removing the property from the local tax rolls could cost the county at least $1 million a year, revenue the county said typically supports essential services delivered to residents.
The Board of Supervisors directed county staff and the county attorney to draft a formal response to Homeland Security outlining land-use policies and potential impacts. That response is due in mid-February.
County officials said that while the federal government is generally exempt from local zoning requirements, the board expects Homeland Security to reconsider the proposed purchase after reviewing the county’s submitted concerns.
Later Friday, the warehouse owner posted a brief statement on its website saying the transaction to sell the Ashland property would not proceed. County officials said they were aware of the statement and would share additional information if it becomes available.