Vandalia, IL-(Vandalia Radio)- The following information comes from Cromwell Media, Vandalia:
Earlier this week, Cromwell Media-Vandalia received answers to question submitted to the Illinois Department of Corrections by several lawmakers (you can find the answer to those questions at the bottom of this story)in regards to draft plans that would consolidate some of the operations at the Vandalia Correctional Center and other Correctional Centers in the state. Some of those answers led to the need for further clarification on some issues. Cromwell Media-Vandalia made contact with Gregory Runyan with the Illinois Department of Corrections, who answered the submitted questions and also began with a statement explaining the draft plan by the DOC.
Illinois Department of Corrections set forth a draft plan to most effectively use state resources to protect the safety and security of our staff and individuals in our custody. Under the plan, no correctional center would close and no staff would be laid off. In fact, DOC has a number of open positions we are currently working to hire for. The draft plan recommends the consolidation of certain housing units in Vandalia Correctional Center to ensure the proper ratio of staff to individuals in custody and best serve our population.
1. The answers refer to “Vandalia proper.” Is that referring to the Vandalia Correctional Center? Vandalia Proper refers to Vandalia Correctional Center. The plan is to consolidate the housing units in Vandalia proper into the North Zone, which previously housed the Vandalia Work Camp. We are still exploring options for buildings that are going to be consolidated but could possibly be repurposed into other uses.
2. Does that mean the Vandalia Work Camp would stay in operation? The Vandalia Work Camp was renamed the North Zone several years ago.
3. In regards to employees, what type of impact would this have for Vandalia? How many employees does Vandalia have at the present time? There will not be a reduction in the current workforce assigned to Vandalia Correctional Center. There are approximately 215 employees at Vandalia Correctional Center.
4. In remembering past issues when it came to prisons and such, it seemed there was input/final decision from the Governor’s Office. So, has the Governor weighed in on this closure? It is a draft plan that is being shared with stakeholders and the Governor’s office.
Answers to questions from Lawmakers.
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