Officials urge coordinated response as FCI Big Spring staff face job losses

County officials briefed the court on efforts to support employees and families affected by the announced closure of the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Big Spring. The presiding official said staff had been notified and described outreach by elected officials, city leaders and college representatives seeking more information and asking the Bureau of Prisons to reconsider the decision.

"Some are 200 and something families, who just found out that their jobs are going to be gone from Big Spring," the presiding official said, urging the public to be aware of ongoing coordination. The county described a focus group that has met twice and said the mayor will serve as the point of contact for media to ensure consistent messaging. Officials also said they are pursuing workforce support and other local measures to try to keep affected employees in the community.

The court said a letter drafted by Drew Darby — and signed by city, county and college officials — requests specific information and assistance from the Bureau of Prisons. County leaders also said they are considering options for the facility itself should the closure proceed, but stressed many details remain contingent on decisions outside county control.

County officials asked residents to direct ideas and inquiries to the mayor’s office, which is coordinating public requests and information. No formal county action on the closure itself was taken at the meeting; the court discussed the matter as an informational update and community outreach effort.