Butte Council hears strong opposition to proposed women's prison amid community growth concerns

The Butte-Silver Bow Council of Commissioners convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, with a significant focus on the proposed construction of a women's prison in Butte. The meeting featured robust public commentary, reflecting a strong community sentiment against the prison project.

During the public comment segment, numerous residents voiced their concerns regarding the potential economic and social impacts of establishing a prison in the city. Britney Ferris, a local resident, argued that the prison would deter investment in the arts and other industries, which are vital to Butte's revitalization. She emphasized that the community is experiencing growth and does not need a prison to define its future.

Mark Garf, a business owner and planning board member, echoed these sentiments, citing research indicating that communities with prisons often face stagnation rather than economic growth. He highlighted that the jobs created by prisons typically do not benefit local residents, as many positions are filled by individuals from outside the area. Garf urged the council to consider long-term community investment rather than short-term fixes.

Chris Pantano, another resident, criticized the notion that the prison would be a "win-win" for the community, arguing that it would instead rebrand Butte as a prison town, which could harm its identity and economic prospects. He questioned the economic benefits of prisons, referencing the stagnation seen in other towns with similar facilities.

The chief executive of Butte-Silver Bow, Gallagher, acknowledged the concerns raised during public comments and expressed his own reservations about the prison's impact on the community. He noted that while the state has the authority to proceed with the project, local voices must be heard in the decision-making process.

In addition to the prison discussion, the council addressed other agenda items, including the approval of minutes from the previous meeting and the addition of emergency communications related to public works and health department contracts. The council approved the suspension of rules to add these items to the agenda, emphasizing the need for timely action on pressing matters.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to continue engaging with the community regarding the prison proposal and to explore alternative solutions that align with Butte's vision for growth and development. The council's next steps will involve further discussions and potential outreach to state officials regarding the prison's location and its implications for the community.