Southfield Leases Office Space to ICE for Administrative Functions

City says ICE enforcement officers will not operate out of the location

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Southfield, Michigan has announced that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be leasing office space at the Oakland Towne Square commercial property in the city. The space will be used for administrative and legal functions, but Southfield officials say ICE enforcement officers will not be operating out of that location.

Why it matters

The increased activities of ICE across the country under the current administration have attracted significant attention and controversy. This development in Southfield highlights the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies like ICE in local communities.

The details

The U.S. General Services Administration has executed a lease for office space at Oakland Towne Square, a privately owned commercial property in Southfield that is zoned for general office use. City officials say they do not have the authority to allow or reject specific tenants as long as the proposed use follows zoning and regulatory rules.

  • The lease was executed on February 12, 2026.

The players

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States.

City of Southfield

A city in Metro Detroit, Michigan where the ICE office space will be located.

U.S. General Services Administration

The federal agency that executed the lease for the ICE office space in Southfield.

Oakland Towne Square

The privately owned commercial property in Southfield where the ICE office space is located.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The City recognizes that residents may have questions regarding this development. The City of Southfield remains committed to transparency, factual communication, and ensuring the community understands the scope of municipal authority in matters involving private commercial property.”

— City of Southfield (City of Southfield Press Release)

What’s next

As additional verified information becomes available, the City of Southfield says it will share updates with the public.

The takeaway

This development in Southfield highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the role of federal agencies like ICE in local communities. While the city says it has limited authority over private commercial property, the leasing of office space to ICE is likely to generate continued scrutiny and debate.