A local community in Pennsylvania is up in arms over a proposal to house 1,000 undocumented migrant minors in a historic Civil War-era orphanage.
This unexpected plan has stirred strong emotions and opposition from residents and officials alike.
Proposal Sparks Outrage
The proposal came to light through a letter from USA Up Star, an Indiana-based disaster response organization.
They suggested converting the Scotland School for Veterans Children—previously an orphanage and more recently used as a summer camp—into a shelter for refugee families.
The facility is located in Scotland, Pennsylvania, and its potential new use has created a wave of discontent.
Local Backlash
At a town meeting on Tuesday, the proposed plan was met with fierce resistance.
The gathering was so packed with concerned residents that it overflowed.
State lawmakers, including Rep. Rob Kauffman and state Sen. Doug Mastriano, expressed their strong opposition in a joint press release.
They argued that federal contractors should not house illegal immigrants in Franklin County and called the move an “invasion” from the southern border.
Concerns About Safety and Security
Franklin County resident Sue McPhail voiced her apprehensions, highlighting the lack of information about the migrants’ backgrounds.
In an interview with WGAL8, she questioned whether the individuals might be involved in criminal activities, such as gang affiliations or trafficking.
Zoning Dispute
Complicating the situation, Greene Township zoning officer Daniel Bachman wrote in August that the former school’s current zoning only supports low-density residential use.
He stated that converting the facility into a higher-density shelter would violate local codes.
USA Up Star subsequently requested more zoning information from the township, indicating ongoing discussions with federal authorities.
Potential Impact and Risks
Sen. Mastriano warned of the risks posed by the proposed shelter, pointing out the nearby Letterkenny Army Depot.
He suggested that the proximity of the migrant housing to this national security site could create significant liabilities.
He also expressed concerns that the plan could lead to increased crime and diminish community safety.
Broader Implications
The joint press release raised additional worries about the impact on local services.
Increased population could strain housing markets, water and sewer systems, and public services such as schools and emergency responders.
The release emphasized that the community might face challenges in managing these demands.
Public Reaction
The proposal has sparked a strong response on social media, with many users expressing frustration.
Some suggested that the facility should instead be used to house American homeless individuals and military veterans.
Others argued that the country cannot afford the financial and cultural impact of accommodating large numbers of migrants.
A Historic Institution
The Scotland School for Veterans Children, established in 1895, was originally intended to educate the children of Pennsylvania service members.
The campus, which closed in 2009, includes several vacant buildings, such as a library, gym, and chapel.
The community now faces uncertainty about the future use of this historic site.
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