Middlesex County NJ Resolution to Ban ICE Operations on County Property
The resolution follows Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s recent executive order
Middlesex County officials are taking a firm stand on federal immigration activity. In a move aimed at bolstering community trust and aligning with state-level mandates, county leaders announced a forthcoming resolution that will effectively bar federal agencies from using County-owned property for civil immigration enforcement.
The announcement, made on February 18, 2026, marks a significant shift in how the County interacts with federal agencies like U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
A Unified Front for Constitutional Rights
The resolution, set for a formal introduction at the Board of County Commissioners meeting on March 5, seeks to prohibit civil immigration “operational activities” across all county-controlled facilities.
This includes Middlesex County Courts and Corrections facilities; educational institutions, including Middlesex College and the County Magnet Schools; and all county-owned or leased administrative buildings.
Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios emphasized that the move is rooted in legal accountability. “Middlesex County will not permit actions on County property that undermine trust or compromise constitutional rights,” Rios stated, noting that residents should feel secure when accessing essential public services.
Aligning with State Mandates
This local action follows the precedent set by Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s Executive Order No. 12, which restricts the use of New Jersey state property for civil immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. By adopting this resolution, Middlesex County reinforces its compliance with the state’s Immigrant Trust Directive.
Sheriff Mildred S. Scott clarified the legal stance of the Sheriff’s Office, noting that enforcement activity inconsistent with the Constitution is simply “unlawful.” She added, “Middlesex County will not permit unlawful or unauthorized enforcement practices on County properties.”
Training and Resident Support
Beyond the prohibition of ICE activities, the county will provide training for residents and staff to understand how to interact with federal immigration enforcement.
Residents are encouraged to report interactions with ICE via the state’s official portal at njoag.gov/portal.
Related Articles
Judge Faces Discipline For Wearing Hat With Palestine Flag To Conference
By wearing a cap with the Palestine flag, the judge engaged in political speech barred by judicial ethics rules, a state ethics panel says.
Phillipsburg to Honor “Unknown Black Child” with Memorial at Historic Cemetery
The town is currently fundraising via GoFundMe to support the plaque and other local Black history initiatives.
