Governor Jim Pillen says the Work Ethic Camp (WEC) in McCook has passed its final inspection by federal officials and is nearly ready to house immigration detainees under a contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The facility received final approval this week following a walkthrough by ICE inspectors. Remaining security upgrades are expected to wrap up within days.
“Getting the final pieces pulled together has admittedly been a little bit of a moving target and has been made more difficult with the Schumer shutdown,” Gov. Pillen said. “Given the many tasks that had to be completed, including the transfer of remaining inmates, building modifications, training of staff, and other components, we have made significant progress.”
Rob Jeffreys, director of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS), said the successful inspection reflects the team’s “commitment to safety, security, and professionalism,” adding that cooperation with DHS and ICE was key to meeting federal standards.
A timeline for the arrival of detainees is still being coordinated. The facility will remain owned and operated by NDCS under a contract that runs through Sept. 29, 2027. Modifications will allow WEC to house up to 300 detainees, and staffing levels will increase to accommodate expanded housing and transportation needs.
“Once operational, this facility will be key in providing regional support to ICE officials who are working tirelessly to identify illegal criminals and get them off our streets,” Pillen said.
According to the Governor’s Office, the arrangement will generate about $14 million in annual revenue for the state, or roughly $2.4 million per month after costs.