Monterey County joins regional opposition to proposed ICE detention center in Gilroy

The Monterey County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously May 19 to oppose reports that the U.S. General Services Administration and a private contractor are preparing a contract to build an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center near Gilroy (reported site: 7240 Holesclaw Road). The board also authorized staff to transmit formal letters of opposition to the county's federal and state delegation, to join litigation initiated by Santa Clara County and the state Attorney General’s Office, and to review local zoning and land‑use authorities for protections against future county siting of similar facilities.

Supervisor Alejo, co‑chair of the Board’s immigrant‑rights ad hoc committee, said the proposed location and contract award reports have created urgent concern across Monterey County, which relies on immigrant labor for agriculture and hospitality. "A detention center in our region intensifies fear, trauma and distrust among immigrant families," he said during the discussion.

What the board requested: (1) a formal county resolution opposing the Gilroy facility; (2) transmittal of opposition letters to the county’s Congressional and state delegation and to the governor; (3) coordination with Santa Clara County’s planned litigation and the California Department of Justice; and (4) an immediate review of Monterey County zoning and land‑use authority to identify protections that could bar similar projects in unincorporated Monterey County.

Next steps: County counsel and staff were directed to prepare the letters and to coordinate with Santa Clara County and federal and state representatives; the board also discussed seeking quick coordination with Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren’s office.

Provenance: Board briefing and unanimous vote, May 19, 2026 (discussion begins SEG 3091; motion and unanimous vote recorded SEG 3995).

Ending: The board’s immediate and unanimous resolution sends a clear political and legal signal to regional and state partners that Monterey County opposes the construction of a federal ICE detention center within the region.