Proposed Lincoln County site for new state prison generating pushback

October 26, 2023

CANTON, S.D.–A future state prison in Lincoln County continues to face pushback from residents living near the proposed site and county leaders are joining their constituents in calling for the state to answer questions.

Lincoln County Commission listened to residents’ concerns about the prison site this week, and shared in their frustration with a lack of communication from the state.

The County Commission has no authority in the state’s decisions with the new prison site, but they have been trying to facilitate communication.

They’ve gotten involved with hearing resident concerns, including the growing concern that property values will go down and the potential impact the prison may have on Lincoln County taxpayers.

Lincoln County Commissioner Joel Arends is renewing the call for DOC Secretary Kellie Wasko to meet with residents in person.