CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has decided not to move forward with plans for a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Merrimack, Gov. Kelly Ayotte announced Tuesday.

The decision followed meetings in Washington, D.C., between Ayotte and Kristi Noem, the secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Ayotte said she raised concerns voiced by local officials and residents in Merrimack about the proposed facility.

“I’m pleased to announce that the Department of Homeland Security will not move forward with the proposed ICE facility in Merrimack,” Ayotte said in a statement. She thanked Noem for considering the town’s concerns and emphasized continued cooperation between federal and New Hampshire law enforcement agencies on border security and public safety efforts.

Noem said New Hampshire has been a strong partner on federal enforcement priorities, including cooperation between state and federal law enforcement. She added that DHS looks forward to continuing to work with state leaders on shared public safety goals.

The proposed facility had drawn attention from local leaders and community members, prompting discussions between state officials and federal authorities over its potential impact on the region