Local group opposes CoreCivic's plan to reopen ice detention facility in Leavenworth

The Leavenworth County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on April 30, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding the potential reopening of a CoreCivic facility as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center. The meeting began with a public comment from a local representative opposing CoreCivic's plans, expressing gratitude to the commission for their previous unanimous decision against partnering with the company.

The speaker highlighted ongoing concerns about CoreCivic's practices, particularly regarding their hiring of contractors from Texas, despite promises to utilize local labor. This was underscored by reports of undocumented workers being employed at the facility, raising questions about compliance with local labor laws and community standards. The speaker urged the commission to support the City of Leavenworth, which has threatened legal action to enforce land use regulations against CoreCivic.

Concerns were also raised about the environmental impact of the facility, specifically referencing past issues with sanitary sewer overflows linked to the facility's operations. The speaker argued that while CoreCivic may present itself as a beneficial partner by contributing to local utilities, the hidden costs and risks associated with their operations could outweigh these benefits.

The meeting continued with additional public comments, indicating a strong local opposition to CoreCivic's plans. The speaker concluded by urging the commission to make a public statement in solidarity with the City of Leavenworth and to resist external pressures from CoreCivic.

Overall, the meeting underscored the community's apprehension regarding the reopening of the detention facility and the need for local officials to prioritize the interests of residents over corporate influences. The BOCC is expected to deliberate further on this issue in upcoming sessions, with community members closely monitoring the developments.