ICE Detention Centers In Private Buildings Opposed In Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — County Executive Calvin Ball announced Friday that he will submit emergency legislation at the County Council's Monday meeting prohibiting privately owned buildings to function as immigration detention centers in Howard County.

"The creation of privately-owned detention facilities anywhere in our county and state raises serious concerns about health, welfare and oversight that must be addressed. As we continue to see the devastating consequences of federal enforcement actions that have led to loss of life and unrest, we must stand united against any actions that cause more harm, fear and division within our community," Ball said in a statement.

This legislation follows the county’s inspection of a privately owned office building in Elkridge, which is being renovated for use by Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a detention facility.

A third-party permitting company known as McKeever Services, located in Fairfax, Virginia, has applied for and received a permit to renovate 28,614 square feet within an existing building located at 6522 Meadowridge Road in Elkridge.

The building is owned by Genesis GSA Strategic One, LLC. The building permit was issued on Aug. 5, 2025, with the following description of work: “General services administration/scope of work includes improvement of tenant spaces support areas, detention facility, detainee processing and secured waiting area.”

The work performed under the permit appears to be nearing completion. The most recent inspection was passed with conditions on Dec. 29, 2025. However, certain areas must be reinspected and approved prior to issuance of a use and occupancy certificate, Ball said.

The County Council will consider the introduction of the emergency legislation during its legislative session Monday at 7 p.m.