(KNSI) — A new state report shows the aging Minnesota Correctional Facility in St. Cloud either needs replacement or significant upgrades.
The Minnesota Office of the Ombuds for Corrections, a separate and independent group from the Department of Corrections, released the study and raises concerns about the St. Cloud prison’s ability to house inmates and staff safely. Researchers say the current system is under-resourced and not serving public safety needs.
They also cite crumbling brick and rock buildings that make easy weapons for prisoners, and a high number of cells that don’t have air conditioning, leading to overheating for some inmates. It also mentions roof leaks, flooding, water filtration issues, repairing or replacing mortar between bricks or stones for interior and exterior walls, and more.
The St. Cloud complex was built in 1889 and houses 2,300 prisoners. It’s estimated to cost around $730 million to rebuild. Addressing only immediate safety and security needs would cost an estimated $71 million.
The report also calls for the closure of Stillwater’s complex because the cost to bring it into compliance is too close to the cost of replacement. Officials are advised to expand the prisons in Fairbault and Rush City to house the prisoners from Stillwater and recommend reducing the state’s prison population by granting early release, including work release, medical and elder release, and community treatment.
Minnesota Department of Corrections officials are asking lawmakers for funding to repair prisons around the state. Governor Tim Walz requested that $65.5 million be set aside for repairs. Department officials said they have over 175 projects on hold statewide that would cost $732 million to repair. Lawmakers are in the process of making adjustments to the governor’s budget.
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