Butte commissioners ask Montana DOC to clarify plans after residents oppose proposed women's prison

Dozens of residents told the Butte-Silver Bow Council of Commissioners on June 4 that a proposed state women's prison would harm Butte's ongoing economic revitalization and community identity, and the council voted 11-0 to authorize a letter to the Montana Department of Corrections requesting clarification of the DOC's plans and assurance of public involvement.

Why it matters: Public commenters and multiple commissioners said the proposal could redirect local development, stigmatize neighborhoods and offer only a limited number of jobs for local residents. The council's request asks the DOC to be explicit about preferred locations, timing and public comment opportunities so local leaders and residents can respond.

The meeting's public-comment period featured more than a half-dozen speakers opposed to siting a women's prison in Butte. Britney Ferris said Butte is “beginning to grow and change in several positive aspects” and that a prison would…