Saint Paul, MN. – The Minnesota Legislature this morning announced the Department of Corrections (DOC) will start the work to close the Stillwater prison in two phases over the next four years, with full closure expected by June 30, 2029.
“I was informed of the closure this morning and have been in touch with local leaders and leadership at the DOC. This is a difficult development to process in the final hours of session. While there is no question that the facility was in unacceptable condition that endangered both correctional staff and incarcerated persons, there is also no question that it is an integral piece to the fabric and history of our community,” said Rep. Josiah Hill (DFL - Stillwater). “In the coming days, I will focus on working with the employees as they prepare to transition, to ensure that they and their families are fully supported and cared for. I will also work closely with the DOC to guarantee the safety and well-being of each and every incarcerated person in the Stillwater facility; their dignity and humanity must be a top priority and should not suffer due to the decades-long underinvestment in the facility and the resulting need to shutter it.”
The facility is the oldest of its kind in Minnesota and was facing increasingly massive maintenance needs that became insurmountable.
“I will work diligently towards a plan that creates a brighter future for our district. We will absolutely not allow this to turn into a blight on our wonderful communities,” Rep. Hill continued. “Handled correctly, this could be an opportunity for a brighter future for our region and I will work tirelessly to make a positive vision a reality.”
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