By Allison Peck
McCook, Neb - A Nebraska district court has ruled that the state can proceed with converting the Work Ethic Camp North of McCook into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility, despite ongoing legal challenges.
On October 27, 2025, Red Willow County District Judge Patrick Heng denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by former State Senator DiAnna Schimek and 13 other McCook residents. The lawsuit, initiated by Nebraska Appleseed, argues that Governor Jim Pillen's plan to repurpose the facility violates the Nebraska Constitution by bypassing legislative approval for such a significant change in use. The plaintiffs contend that only the Nebraska Legislature has the authority to repurpose state-owned buildings, including correctional facilities.
The judge also overruled a request for a temporary injunction that sought to halt the conversion process while the case proceeds. In his ruling, Judge Heng found that the plaintiffs did not demonstrate "irreparable harm" and that the public interest favored allowing the state to move forward with the project. He noted that the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has the statutory authority to operate and locate work camps, and the law does not restrict the use of such facilities to specific purposes.
The state plans to repurpose the Work Ethic Camp into a detention center dubbed the "Cornhusker Clink," modeled after similar facilities in other states. The facility is expected to house up to 300 detainees and is projected to generate approximately $14 million annually in revenue for the state under a contract with ICE running through 2027.
While the conversion can proceed, the lawsuit will continue to be litigated in court. The outcome may have significant implications for the balance of power between Nebraska's executive and legislative branches concerning the use and repurposing of state-owned facilities.
As of now, the Work Ethic Camp has been vacated, and preparations are underway to transform it into the Cornhusker Clink, with a new perimeter fence and other modifications to accommodate the planned detainee population.
This development has sparked ongoing debate within the McCook community, with some residents expressing concern over the loss of rehabilitative programs and the potential impact on local resources. The case is expected to continue to draw attention as it progresses through the courts.