State Senator Michael Breitbach: Closing of Luster Heights came at the recommendation of state prison officials

The closing of Luster Heights minimum security prison in Allamakee County came as part of a $5.5 million reduction to the state's prison system.

State Senator Michael Breitbach successfully fought the proposed closing of Luster Heights four years ago.  This time when he met with prison officials and with Governor Terry Branstad, he learned the Governor allowed officials of the prison system to determine how to make the budget cuts.  The prison system officials indicated they couldn't safely cut staff at the maximum security prisons in Iowa, so the budget cuts fell on the other prison facilities.

There were 13 employees at Luster Heights.  Breitbach says they were offered jobs if they were willing to relocate, but many did not want to re-locate.  Says Breitbach, "I'm hopeful that we might find other positions that can utilize their skills and keep them closer to where they currently live."