The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has announced the planned closure of the California Correctional Center, one of Susanville’s two state prisons, on June 30th, of 2022.
A letter addressed to ‘All California Correctional Center Staff’ was sent to CCC employees by CDCR Secretary Kathleen Allison Tuesday morning:
“With the utmost respect and gratitude for your hard work and service, we must inform you that California Correctional Center has been selected for closure. This is part of the overall path to close two prisons, which was laid out in the Governor’s budget, as the State looks to reduce costs and respond to the decline in inmate population. The expected closure will take place by June 30, 2022. CDCR previously announced the first prison closure, of Deuel Vocational Institution, by September 30, 2021.
“As painful and daunting as this may appear, it is important for you to know that we will work hard to ensure a smooth transition for everyone that works and lives at CCC. We fully recognize this change will have a profound impact, but our promise to you is that we will go through this process in the most thoughtful and transparent way possible. Everyone can expect to be treated with the respect they deserve for their many contributions to our department and our mission.
“The reasons this institution was selected for closure are not a reflection of its quality of work and care, or the management or staff. In fact, we could not be prouder of the commitment of our incredible and dedicated staff, as well as the accomplishments CCC has amassed over its 58-year history. In particular, CCC’s mission to train minimum-custody inmates for placement into fire camp service is commendable, and the state of California is grateful for your efforts.
“The fire camps administered by CCC will now transition to the administration of Sierra Conservation Center in Jamestown. CDCR will work closely with CAL FIRE to maintain adequate fire response and community involvement. It is not expected that SCC’s absorption of the Northern Region firefighters into its training program will have any negative impact on the fire camps program.
“By providing the opportunities we do as a system, we also provide people with the opportunity to earn a second chance. However, given the population decline and budgetary challenges the State is currently under, the selection was based on parameters outlined in California Penal Code 2067, which includes cost to operate, impact of closure on the workforce, population housing needs, and public safety and rehabilitation.
“Staff can be assured that we will work together to ensure a smooth transition, including placing employees into like positions at other facilities whenever possible. CDCR and CCHCS have formed a team to coordinate and oversee the process with CalHR, and to ensure ongoing communication and transparency with staff throughout. We also have dedicated emails for questions: [email protected] (CDCR) or [email protected] (CCHCS).
“We also encourage staff to utilize supportive resources available through the Office of Employee Wellness. You can find more resources here: https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/wellness.
As we move forward with the closure, we thank you for your commitment, hard work, and perseverance. We are equally committed to you, and to keeping our staff, families and communities informed and connected.
