![Lawmakers get response from DOC on questions about VCC and Pontiac Prison, look for more clarification in meeting today](https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/255/files/2019/03/jason-plummer.jpg)
Area lawmakers got a response to questions they had earlier submitted to the Illinois Department of Corrections concerning the future of the Vandalia Correctional Center. And, they look for further clarification today.
Back on February 11th, State Senator Jason Plummer along with State Representative Blaine Wilhour and other lawmakers submitted a list of questions to the Illinois Department of Corrections in regards to concerns over the future of the Vandalia Correctional Center and the Pontiac Correctional Center. Department of Corrections Director Rob Jeffreys submitted the answers to lawmakers. The most concerning would be the response to the question “Does the Illinois Department of Corrections have any plans to close all, parts, or either of those facilities permanently? If so, what is the timeline for any closures?” The answer from Director Jeffreys says “Yes, Pontiac MSU (medium security unit) East/West Cellhouse and Vandalia proper will be closing permanently. At this time, the estimated timeline is March 2022 through August 2022.” “Vandalia proper” would seem to refer to the Vandalia Correctional Center.
Meanwhile, State Senator Jason Plummer says the responses did leave more questions.
This concern all became public early last month when a Department of Corrections document outlining similar plans began floating around on social media and other areas and discussed the closing of the Vandalia Correctional Center and leaving the Vandalia Work Camp in place and operating. Senator Plummer says they will be working to get more clarification on the issue in an in person meeting with DOC.
That meeting is scheduled for today. It is not known at this time if this is a finalized plan at this point or if the Governor’s office has had any input in the plan at this time. Cromwell Media-Vandalia has requested interviews with both Governor J.B. Pritzker and DOC Director Rob Jeffreys on this issue.
Full response from DOC Director Rob Jeffreys
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