Full Breakdown
Community Opposition to Proposed ICE Detention Facility in Merrimack Amidst Environmental Concerns
2/23/2026, 5:51:20 AM
Proposed Facility and Environmental Context
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to convert a warehouse located at 50 Robert Milligan Parkway in Merrimack, New Hampshire, into an immigrant detention facility. This site is situated within a contamination zone where residents have faced long-standing issues with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in their drinking water. These "forever chemicals," linked to various health issues including cancer, have been traced back to the now-demolished Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics manufacturing plant, approximately six miles from the proposed facility. The contamination affects a 65-square-mile area, raising significant health concerns among local residents.
Water and Soil Contamination Concerns
Local private wells have shown elevated levels of PFAS, while public water utilities, such as Pennichuck Water Works, are actively testing and treating water to meet state standards. However, private wells are not subject to the same regulations. An engineering assessment by ICE indicated that the site could support a new detention facility, despite concerns raised by local officials regarding the potential impact on the town’s Aquifer Conservation District. Testing has revealed PFOA levels in nearby groundwater exceeding state standards, with soil samples also indicating contamination above remediation thresholds.
Community Response and Protests
On February 20, 2026, approximately 1,500 individuals gathered at Merrimack Town Hall to protest the proposed facility. Residents expressed a range of concerns, including the strain on local water resources, increased emergency service costs, and potential loss of tax revenue from the warehouse. Donna Larue, a local resident, emphasized the community's determination to oppose the facility, stating, “Right now we're trying to do anything we can to put sand in the gears to this actually going forward.”
Despite the town's conservative leanings, opposition has emerged across the political spectrum, with residents voicing that the facility contradicts New Hampshire's values. Rep. Wendy Thomas criticized the lack of transparency from ICE and the state government, noting increased activity at the site despite no formal updates on ownership or plans.
Official Statements and Local Government Actions
Merrimack town manager Paul Micali highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the federal government's intentions regarding the facility, stating that the town is at a “crossroads.” Governor Kelly Ayotte has called for federal officials to engage with local leaders but has not taken a definitive stance on the facility. Local officials have issued letters of opposition, reflecting the community's concerns about the potential impacts of the detention center.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While local testing has focused more on water than soil, discrepancies exist regarding the extent of contamination. Some reports indicate that soil samples near the Everett Turnpike have shown elevated PFAS levels, while others suggest that regulatory testing has not been comprehensive enough to fully assess the risks associated with the proposed facility.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is an atrocity, and I think we're just trying to find ways to go to the zoning board, go to the town council, and try to push back in any way we can.” — Donna Larue, Merrimack Resident
- “We’re getting screwed doubly — paying more and getting less,” — Marc Nozell, Merrimack Resident
- “This [facility] does not correlate with the rest of what we stand for.” — Leigh Robinson, Teacher from Francestown
The proposed ICE detention facility in Merrimack continues to face significant opposition from residents and local officials, driven by environmental concerns and a desire for transparency from federal authorities.
