That's one solution suggested by former Governor Engler.
LANSING -- UPDATE - Thursday, May 07, 2009 5:15 PM
Here's an unusual idea that could attract some money to the UP, and help the federal government solve a major legal problem.
Take the 200 inmates suspected of terrorism at the Guantanamo prison in Cuba, and send them to a prison in the Upper Peninsula.
That suggestion comes from former Michigan Governor John Engler who believes the state could charge up to $1 billion a year in exchange for taking the suspected terrorists.
President Obama has said he wants to close down the Guantanamo facility within a year.
Officials have suggested two of the most modern prisons in the UP as possiblities, either Baraga Max in Baraga or Alger Max outside of Munising.
So how do citizens in Alger county feel about it?
"At this time, people get into the US and get involved in legal loopholes that so many people have gotten involved in," says Seney Resident Steve Blankemeier. "I don't agree with it, especially in this wonderful area. Not in our backyard."
"Alger Max is a good prison and the people of the community take care of it it there," adds Munising Resident Steven Dutczak. "There'd be some people who'd be a little skeptical of the idea."
Congressman Bart Stupak indicated he's open to the idea of locating the Guantanmo prisoners here, but he wants to hear from local residents first.
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UPDATE - Thursday, May 07, 2009 12:40 PM
One solution for Michigan's money trouble and the Fed's issue on where to house enemy combatants and terror suspects from Guantanamo Bay.
House them in Upper Michigan's prisons.
Thursday, the Detroit Free Press reports the idea comes from former Republican Governor John Engler.
He suggested the idea at a strategy session last week in Lansing with GOP lawmakers.
Engler says the state could charge $1 billion to turn a prison into a holding facility.
Two prisons being named are Alger Max in Munising and Baraga Max.
That's because they are the most modern facilities.
There are more than 200 Guantanamo prisoners needing to be relocated over the next year under a plan by the Obama Administration.
The President plans to close Guantanamo Bay.
