PIERRE, S.D.(SDBA) — The latest debate over South Dakota’s new prison project ended in a stalemate after the House State Affairs Committee voted 12-1 to send House Bill 1025 to the House Appropriations Committee. No specific recommendation was made on funding for the project.

Department of Corrections Secretary Kellie Wasko defended the project, she was joined in support of the projects by several statewide law enforcement agencies and currently employees of the state penitentiary in Sioux Falls.

On the other side, nearby residents criticized the location choice and what it would mean for  the future growth of Lincoln County — South Dakota’s fastest growing county by population. Other concerns were made about the price tag, $825 million just for the facility, as well as how it was selected. Lincoln County resident Matt Hoffman:

The bill heads to the House Appropriations Committee, it will be due for a vote in the House by February 25, “crossover day.”