# Clearfield County approves ICE contract extension amid protests

> Clearfield County votes to extend ICE detention center contract despite community backlash
- Title: Clearfield County approves ICE contract extension amid…
- Summary: Clearfield County votes to extend ICE detention center contract despite community backlash County maintains $5m monthly federal funding for ICE facility…
- Keywords: clearfield county, ice, moshannon valley processing center, geogroup, federal funding, immigration policy, commissioners, protest, detention center, pennsylvania, immigration reform, public health
- Source: PhillyVoice — https://phillyvoice.com/clearfield-county-commissioners-ice-contract-extension
- Published: 2026-09-23T17:58:04.397+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: clearfield county, ice, moshannon valley processing center, geogroup, federal funding, immigration policy, commissioners, protest, detention center, pennsylvania, immigration reform, public health
## County votes for ICE extension
Clearfield County commissioners approved a six-month contract extension for ICE to operate the Moshannon Valley Processing Center, the largest East Coast detention facility.

> Those gathered here today represent community members who refuse to stand by
## Public opposition grows
Over 10,000 people have been processed through the facility since January, with speakers citing three deaths and complaints about abuse, poor food, and healthcare access.

> We stand against these practices, including the use of the Moshannon facility
## County's financial role
Clearfield County receives $200,000 annually from the $5 million monthly federal funding that ICE pays GEO Group to run the facility.
## Dissenting commissioner
Democratic Commissioner Dave Glass voted against the extension, stating the county shouldn't be involved in federal immigration policy decisions.

> We're in the middle of it. We shouldn't be in the middle of it
## Supporting commissioner
District Attorney Ryan Sayers supported the extension, noting his parents work at the facility and that immigration laws should be enforced.

> The citizens of Clearfield County deserve leaders and civil servants who will help uphold those laws
## Facility conditions
Commissioner Tim Winters said claims of poor conditions are overblown, noting he and Commissioner Sobel have eaten the same food at the facility.

> Both Commissioner Sobel and myself have went there unannounced, eaten the same food
## Historical context
The Moshannon Valley facility reopened in 2021 after the Trump administration reversed a Biden-era ban on federal contracts with for-profit prison operators.
## Federal policy shifts
DHS has issued a request for proposals to buy the facility, with potential 10-year contracts for expanded operations across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia.
## Immigration advocates
Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition executive director Jasmine Rivera said the extension is needed for due diligence before a potential sale of the facility.

> Jasmine Rivera believes the six-month contract extension is needed for the parties to complete their due diligence
## Criminal enterprise concerns
Retired state police detective Sean Inlow called the county's involvement in immigration detention a criminal enterprise, stating it violates moral and legal standards.

> If the county commissioners are going to accept this contract, you are participating in a criminal enterprise
## Healthcare gaps
Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services is owed over $230,000 by ICE due to a lapse in medical payment processing agreements.
## County tax impact
The facility provides tax revenue to Decatur Township and Phillipsburg-Osceola School District, creating financial dependencies for local entities.
## Political context
Clearfield County's decision comes as federal immigration policy remains contentious, with advocates pushing for comprehensive reform.
## Contract expiration
Without the extension, the county's contract with ICE would expire Sept. 28, but the facility would continue operating without county oversight.
## Future implications
The county's decision may influence federal policy shifts as DHS considers purchasing the facility for expanded operations.
## Key takeaway

County maintains $5m monthly federal funding for ICE facility while facing criticism over detainee conditions