LANSING – State Representatives from the Upper Peninsula today blasted the decision of the Department of Corrections to close several area prison camps, which will result in the loss of more than 150 jobs.
"The hard-working employees at these facilities pay their taxes here, keep
our economy strong by spending money in our stores and restaurants, and are pillars of our communities," said Steven Lindberg
(D-Marquette), whose district is losing one prison camp to the cuts. "Times are tough in our area, and we can't afford
to lose any jobs, let alone have to shoulder massive losses like these."
The closures were included in the Governor's May 5 Executive Order. The plan was approved, 63-47, by the House, but State Representatives Judy Nerat (D-Wallace), Mike Lahti (D-Hancock) and Lindberg all voted against it.
"These prison closures are going to be tough on our residents who lost their jobs, as well as their families and the communities they live in," said Lahti, who will see two camps close in his district. "These facilities were important to both our economy and the safety of our residents. When times were good and no one wanted these prisons in their backyards we gladly took them because they provided good jobs. It's disappointing that our prisons are now being closed when times are bad."
The following prisons will be closed due to the Department of Corrections cuts:
- Camp Kitwen in Painesdale: 56 positions lost
- Camp Ottawa in Iron River: 51 positions lost
- Camp Cusino in Shingleton: 60 positions lost
"I voted against these closures because I know how important these jobs are to our community," Nerat said. "The hard-working men and women who are losing these jobs help keep our communities safe. The repercussions of this decision made by the Department of Corrections will be felt in every community across the U.P."