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| Logan prison closure may have ‘astronomical’ effect |
| By pantagraph.com - Kevin Barlow |
| Published: 09/15/2011 |
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LINCOLN IL — In its own mission statement on the Illinois Department of Corrections website is this sentence: “Logan Correctional Center’s mission is to provide for the protection of society through the humane and secure incarceration of adult male offenders based upon a foundation of legislative and judicial decisions.” Ironically, a legislative decision now could threaten the future of the facility that opened 33½ years ago. But the community doesn’t intend to let that happen. A week ago, Gov. Pat Quinn announced his intention to close seven state institutions and lay off more than 1,900 employees to save the state money. About 320 of those jobs are at the Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln, a medium-security facility with a population of 1,800 male inmates. “The impact of what this could mean to the community is astronomical,” said Michael Maniscalco, director of the Lincoln and Logan Economical Development Partnership. “It would affect so many people in so many ways.” A decision isn’t expected for months and some state legislators say they think the money is available to keep the prison open. But that is hardly a guarantee and local officials say the fight to keep the facility operating already has begun. “As soon as it was announced, the phone calls started,” said Lincoln Mayor Keith Snyder. “We know we are going to fight to keep this. We know we are going to get the community and the businesses involved. As for specifics, we just don’t know yet.” Maniscalco and Snyder have had talks with state legislators, who have promised help. “Everyone seems to be on our side in this and nobody wants to see it closed,” Maniscalco said. “So, we don’t have to fight this alone.” Where prison jobs are concerned, communities have a track record of doing all they can to keep them. Most recently in Central Illinois, Pontiac was in a similar situation — and was successful. Read More. |
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