Work Ethic Camp in McCook passes final inspection by ICE

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Gov. Jim Pillen on Thursday provided an update on the progress made at the Work Ethic Camp in McCook, which passed its final inspection by ICE.

The facility is set to be utilized as a detention center for illegal immigrants in support of ongoing efforts by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and ICE.

SEE ALSO: ‘Cornhusker Clink’: Nebraska’s Work Ethic Camp will become ICE detention center

In preparation for receiving detainees, the facility underwent a final walk-through by ICE inspectors this week and was approved for use.

According to Pillen, final security upgrades will continue at the facility over the next day or so.

“Getting the final pieces pulled together has admittedly been a little bit of a moving target and has been made more difficult with the Schumer shutdown,” Pillen said in a press release. “Given the many tasks that had to be completed, including the transfer of remaining inmates, building modifications, training of staff and other components, we have made significant progress.”

Rob Jeffreys, director of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, expressed his appreciation for everyone involved with this transformation.

“Passing these inspections is a testament to our team’s commitment to safety, security, and professionalism,” Jeffreys said. “I appreciate the attention to detail shown at every level of this facility and the strong partnerships and cooperation with DHS and ICE that have made this possible.”

A timeline for receiving detainees is still being arranged in coordination with officials at DHS and ICE.

Earlier this month, Pillen said the facility would be operational by Nov. 1.

The facility will continue to be owned and operated by NDCS, in accordance with the initial contract that runs through Sept. 29, 2027.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska publishes contract with DHS to use Work Ethic Camp as ICE detention center

Additional modifications to the facility will allow it to house up to 300 detainees.

With the increase in population, staffing will also increase to provide coverage in repurposed spaces, housing units and for transportation needs.

“Once operational, this facility will be key in providing regional support to ICE officials who are working tirelessly to identify illegal criminals and get them off our streets,” Pillen said. “Every state is a border state. Nebraska is going to do its part to make sure that our nation, and Nebraskans, are safe and secure.”

Use of the facility will net the state around $14 million annually, according to Pillen.

Taking into consideration all costs associated with housing detainees, Pillen said the state will receive $2.4 million per month.