New England Town Upset Over Plan to Convert Former Prison into Migrant Shelter

Residents in Norfolk, Massachusetts, are expressing frustration over plans to repurpose a former state prison into a tax-payer-funded migrant shelter for hundreds of people without consulting the local community.

The state's decision to refurbish the Bay State Correctional Center, a former minimum-security facility, to accommodate migrants and homeless individuals has sparked outrage among the town's 11,500 residents. The announcement, made without prior consultation, has left many feeling blindsided and concerned about the potential impact on their community.

Residents Voice Concerns

The unexpected news led to a tense special Select Board meeting, during which approximately 300 residents gathered to express their apprehensions about the new facility. They raised questions about its potential effects on local schools, law enforcement, and emergency services, particularly regarding the strain it may put on already stretched municipal budgets.

"Let’s face it, we don't want it here. We don't. And, it doesn't make us bad people, it doesn't make me not compassionate, it doesn't make me a bad father,"

One resident voiced the sentiment of many, expressing a strong opposition to the shelter's establishment in their town and challenging the state's lack of transparency and communication regarding the decision.

Unilateral Decision-Making

Board Chair Jim Lehan expressed his discontent at having learned about the shelter plans through social media, highlighting the lack of prior notice and consultation with the town. Although the state is within its rights to use the facility without local permission, many residents and officials are disappointed by the absence of collaboration in the decision-making process.

The facility, which opened in 2015, is set to accommodate approximately 140 families and will provide essential amenities such as showers, bathrooms, a cafeteria, a gymnasium, and recreational spaces for children. Additionally, the shelter will offer resources for adults, including English language classes and job training.

The state has expressed its intention to hold a community meeting prior to the shelter's opening to address questions and connect with local residents interested in contributing sports, arts, and music programs for the sheltered children. The administration has already engaged with various local officials and authorities to coordinate the establishment of the shelter.

Local Concerns and Diverse Opinions

The proposal to increase the town's population by 4% overnight raised concerns about the town's capacity to support such a sudden influx, especially given its limited infrastructure and resources. While some residents vehemently opposed the shelter, others expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need. Efforts to seek comment from Governor Maura Healey's office have not yet yielded a response, leaving the community eager for an official statement on the matter.