MACHIASPORT — Gov. Paul LePage’s administration is targeting the Downeast Correctional Facility, which employs 68 people, for possible closure to save state dollars.
The proposal is one of many going to a committee that’s looking for $25 million in savings to balance the state budget. Washington County legislators say they vigorously oppose the plan and will meet with the governor to discuss it.
They call the prison, which is located in the former Bucks Harbor Air Force Station in Machiasport, an important regional employer. The medium and minimum security facility houses 148 prisoners.
LePage spokeswoman Adrienne Bennett says the closing is just one proposal on the table and there will be plenty more.
Closing the facility would save $4 million a year.
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