McCook officials say they’ve received ‘limited answers’ about ICE detention center

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Officials in southwest said Monday they are still searching for answers on the new Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in McCook.

Since the announcement of the detention center, local leaders said they have made numerous attempts to talk with representatives of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services and Gov. Jim Pillen’s office.

In a joint press release, Red Willow County, the City of McCook and the McCook Economic Development Corporation said they have received “limited answers.”

SEE ALSO: Senators say plans for Nebraska ICE facility are still preliminary, with no contract yet

Some of the concerns raised by local officials include:

• Public safety and security: What security measures will protect nearby residents? Who handles safety outside the facility? Will the state allocate more law enforcement resources to the area?
• Community impact: How will the facility affect local infrastructure, emergency services and housing, schools and public health services?
• Facility operations: Will both men and women be housed? Will the facility be expanded?
• Transportation: How will detainees be moved to and from the facility? How will the increased number of flights at Ben Nelson Regional Airport impact travelers?

Officials said they asked those questions on Thursday during a meeting with Jesse McVean, emergency preparedness coordinator with the corrections department.

McVean said he would forward them to the appropriate representatives in the state government.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska Legislature committee to hold hearing on planned McCook ICE facility