Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones Raises Economic Concerns About Proposed Eastside Location
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones has formally asked members of the Texas congressional delegation to oppose any federal funding that could support a proposed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility reportedly acquired in the city.
In a letter sent Wednesday to U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz along with Representatives Joaquin Castro, Henry Cuellar, Greg Casar, Tony Gonzales and Chip Roy, the mayor expressed concern about the potential economic impact of placing an ICE facility on San Antonio’s Eastside.
Mayor Jones wrote that locating the facility in what she described as an already economically strained area could negatively affect future investment and job creation. She said the move could make it harder for the community to attract higher paying employment opportunities residents have been seeking.
The mayor emphasized that she is open to discussions about alternative approaches that could strengthen economic development in San Antonio rather than introducing projects she believes may hinder growth.
The proposed ICE facility has not yet been formally approved through federal funding legislation, but local officials and community advocates have begun raising concerns as discussions continue.
