Hardin County to buy IDOC boot camp for jail facility

SPRINGFIELD - Ongoing efforts to reopen the Hardin County Work Camp saw progress last week under recently signed legislation sponsored by state Sen. Dale Fowler, R-Harrisburg.

"Sponsoring this legislation was about paving the way for future economic opportunity for Hardin and other surrounding counties," Fowler said.

"I'm excited that we ended the 100th General Assembly by pushing for development and job creation in Southern Illinois."

Under House Bill 3274, the Illinois Department of Corrections now has the authority to sell the Hardin County Work Camp property to Hardin County for $1.

Once purchased, the property can be used for public purposes, including the creation of a detention center.

"Our administration is always working to set Illinois communities up for future success," said former Gov. Bruce Rauner. "This bill allows Hardin County to do just that. We need to continue to work together, create jobs, and grow Illinois' economy for all the people of our great state."

Last year, the Hardin County Sheriff's Department announced their intentions to reopen the Work Camp, utilizing the structure to house upward of 100 inmates and creating a number of new jobs within the facility.

"Repurposing the former Illinois Department of Corrections Work Camp in to a new detention center will create much needed employment and revenue for our community," Hardin County Sheriff Jerry Fricker said. "I appreciate the assistance and support that has been shown for this project. The new detention center will greatly benefit Hardin County and we are excited for these opportunities."

"I want to applaud the hard work and dedication of the Hardin County Sheriff's Department throughout the pursuit of this property purchase. They have remained committed to this project and because of their efforts, Hardin County now has a path forward to reopening the work camp," Fowler said. "I also want thank (former) Rep. (Natalie) Phelps-Finnie for recognizing the potential within this project and carrying this measure in the House."

Fowler was the chief sponsor for House Bill 3274 in the Senate.