San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez announced Tuesday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will no longer be permitted to use county-owned shooting ranges or training facilities, while U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will retain access. The decision follows a 3-2 vote by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors to terminate agreements with both agencies for use of the San Diego Regional Firearms Training Center in Otay Mesa.
The sheriff’s action creates a split response to the board’s directive. While Martinez supports ending ICE’s access to the facility, she cited concerns about border wait times and economic impact if CBP were also removed. The board’s vote had aimed to terminate contracts with both agencies, but Martinez’s intervention ensures CBP will continue training at the site.
Community and Policy Concerns
The board’s decision stems from public pressure to distance local government from federal immigration enforcement amid concerns over use-of-force incidents during prior administrations. Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe, a supporter of the termination, stated that the county should not be complicit in harm caused by federal immigration agencies. The vote reflects broader debates over local governments’ role in federal enforcement activities.
Economic and Operational Impact
Martinez emphasized that CBP’s continued access is necessary to maintain efficient border operations. The sheriff’s office noted that 225,000 people cross San Diego’s ports of entry daily, with wait times ranging from one to three hours. Removing CBP’s training access, she argued, could lead to longer delays, increased commerce disruptions, and economic strain on the region.
Next Steps and Unresolved Questions
The county’s Department of General Services has been directed to terminate the lease agreements with both ICE and CBP, but Martinez’s decision creates an immediate conflict between local and federal authorities. It remains unclear how the dispute will be resolved, including whether legal or administrative measures will be pursued to enforce the board’s original vote or uphold the sheriff’s partial override.
Background: Federal Training at County Facilities
Both ICE and CBP have used the Otay Mesa training center for firearms qualifications and other exercises for years. The facility’s location near the U.S.-Mexico border has made it a key training hub for agencies enforcing immigration and customs laws. The termination of these agreements marks a significant shift in the county’s relationship with federal immigration enforcement.