EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 State Rep. Vince Perez has raised alarms about a newly acquired Department of Homeland Security (DHS) facility in eastern El Paso County, warning it may lack the necessary water pressure and infrastructure for fire suppression systems. <\/p>\n
Perez is urging El Paso County Emergency Services District No. 2 (ESD2) to withhold permits until these issues are resolved.<\/p>\n
Public documents confirm DHS has acquired an entire industrial block within the Eastwind Industrial subdivision, which falls under ESD2’s jurisdiction. <\/p>\n
Perez highlighted the area’s rapid industrial growth, noting that water infrastructure may not have been designed for large-scale developments, potentially compromising fire hydrants and internal suppression systems.<\/p>\n
“When a facility may be used to house or confine people, questions about water pressure and fire suppression can\u2019t be left unanswered,” Perez said. “Permits should not be issued unless there is clear, verifiable proof that the infrastructure can support those systems under real emergency conditions.”<\/p>\n
Perez has communicated these concerns in a letter to ESD2 Commissioners, with copies sent to El Paso County leadership, advocating for strict enforcement of fire and life-safety standards before the facility becomes operational.<\/p>\n
Perez will further discuss his findings and call for caution at a press conference scheduled for 1 p.m. today at his district office in El Paso. He will be joined by Chief Roger Esparza of ESD2 to address the ESD’s permitting process.<\/p>\n
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