NORTH OF MCCOOK, Neb. — The federal detention facility on federal land north of McCook, Nebraska, formerly the Work Ethic Camp, is moving forward under a contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, but an exact opening date has not been set.
The contract, published on Oct. 17, outlines the facility’s conversion for use by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and is managed by the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The agreement provides for a base monthly payment of approximately $2.4 million.
Gov. Jim Pillen said in a press release on Oct. 23 that the facility underwent a final walk‑through by ICE inspectors and was approved for use, adding that “final security upgrades will continue … 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.”
However, in a subsequent news report on Oct. 28, Pillen confirmed, “It’s gonna be imminent, and as soon as we get the definitive date, we’ll let everybody know.”
On Oct. 27, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng ruled that the state may continue preparations but allowed a lawsuit challenging the facility. The plaintiffs argue that the conversion is inappropriate, while the state maintains that the contract is lawful and benefits taxpayers.
"The agreement we have with DHS is good for Nebraska's taxpayers," said Pillen in a Press Release dated October 27. "And it ensures we are doing all that we can to keep criminal, illegal aliens off our streets."
The facility remains outside McCook city limits, on federal land, and city officials emphasize that the site is not owned or operated by the City of McCook. Contractors report that major renovations, including installation of security fencing, are underway and staffing and training continue, with officials saying a firm opening date will be set soon.