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Elkridge Today
By the People, for the People
Elkridge Warehouse Owner Sues County Over Revoked Permit
Lawsuit claims Howard County's emergency legislation revoking permits for ICE detention facility is unconstitutional
Published on Mar. 7, 2026
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The owner of an Elkridge, Maryland warehouse property has filed a federal lawsuit against Howard County, claiming the county's emergency legislation that revoked permits for the property to be used as an ICE detention facility is unconstitutional. The property owner, Genesis, says it had already spent $21.7 million on the project before the county pulled the plug in February.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement efforts, with Howard County taking a strong stance against hosting an ICE detention facility in their community. The lawsuit could set an important legal precedent around the rights of local governments to make land use decisions that conflict with federal priorities.
The details
The lawsuit filed by Genesis claims the county's actions violated the supremacy and contract clauses of the U.S. Constitution. It argues the new law cannot be enforced and that the county should reissue the permits and pay Genesis tens of millions in damages. The lawsuit alleges county officials participated in Zoom meetings with ICE during the permitting and development process, indicating they were aware the property was intended for ICE use.
- Last month, Howard County passed emergency legislation revoking permits for the Elkridge warehouse property.
- The federal lawsuit was filed on March 7, 2026.
The players
Genesis
The property owner that filed the federal lawsuit against Howard County.
Howard County
The local government that passed emergency legislation to revoke permits for the Elkridge warehouse property to be used as an ICE detention facility.
Calvin Ball
The Howard County Executive named as a plaintiff in the lawsuit.
Sarah Elfreth
A U.S. Representative from Maryland's 3rd Congressional District who praised Howard County's actions.
Chris Van Hollen
A U.S. Senator from Maryland who praised Howard County's actions.
What they’re saying
“They did the right thing. They acted with expediency, and you know, now it goes to the courts.”
— Sarah Elfreth, U.S. Representative (WBAL)
“For taking swift action to pass a local law to prevent ICE from having a detention center and other operations in Howard County.”
— Chris Van Hollen, U.S. Senator (WBAL)
What’s next
The federal judge will need to rule on whether Howard County's emergency legislation revoking the permits is unconstitutional, and whether the county will be required to reissue the permits and pay damages to the property owner.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, with Howard County taking a strong stance against hosting an ICE detention facility despite the property owner's legal challenge. The outcome could set an important precedent around the rights of local jurisdictions to make land use decisions that conflict with federal priorities.
