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DHS’s $70 Million Surprise Warehouse Draws Packed Meeting as Purpose Remains Unclear

City officials say federal zoning exemptions leave them with no power to block the site.

Overview

  • Maricopa County records confirm DHS paid cash for a 418,000-square-foot property near Sweetwater Avenue and Dysart Road.
  • Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said she is unsure whether the site will be a field office or a detention facility.
  • Hundreds attended Tuesday’s Surprise City Council session, with most speakers opposing the facility and a smaller group voicing support.
  • Mayor Kevin Sartor said the city was not notified of the purchase, has sought answers from ICE, and has received none.
  • Neighboring El Mirage raised public-safety and service concerns, and Rep. Paul Gosar requested information about potential local impacts.