Town Demands Inspection Of Burlington ICE Facility

BURLINGTON, MA — The Town of Burlington has issued a formal demand to allow it to inspect the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement building on District Avenue.

The news comes after the controversial arrest and detention of Milford High School junior Marcelo Gomes.

Related: 'Traumatic Time': Immigration Judge Orders MA High School Student's Release On Bond

An initial statement from the town noted that ICE "may now be operating in a capacity inconsistent with the zoning approvals previously granted. Specifically, that [the building] is being used as a detention facility."

The Town of Burlington issued the following updated statement on its website:

An update on the Town's efforts regarding the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building on District Ave.

After working with the Town's legal team and exploring all of our legal options, it was decided to issue a formal demand for inspection to both ICE and the property owner. Last week, the Building Department made this request to both parties and is currently awaiting a response to that demand.

Again, it is important to remember that immigration enforcement and detention fall solely under the jurisdiction of the federal government. Under the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution, federal operations are generally not subject to local oversight or regulation, which significantly limits the Town’s authority in this matter. However, the Town does have a responsibility to ensure that all properties comply with local zoning bylaws and permitting conditions, a responsibility we take seriously.