Management & Training Corporation (MTC) submitted a business‑license application to the Town of Marana on Oct. 1 to convert the former state prison in the city into an immigration detention center. The application moves the project past one of the final municipal hurdles before the facility could become operational, potentially within the next 60 days.
Town process and code requirements
Marana communications director Vic Hathaway explained that the town’s licensing specialist will forward the application to the appropriate departments for review. Each department will assess whether the applicant meets the standards set out in the town code, which includes provisions that deny a license to any business found guilty of fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, unlawful conduct, or conduct that “constitutes a breach of the peace or a menace to the public health.” Hathaway noted that the review typically takes several weeks and does not include a public‑review component.
Opposition from local activists
Organizing group Pima Resists ICE (PRICE) has urged town leaders to block the license, arguing that MTC’s past record should disqualify it under the code. The group points to a recent Lookout and Intercept investigation that alleged MTC failed to report sexual‑abuse allegations at other facilities, as well as contract violations at a state‑run prison in Kingman where inspections found understaffing and security concerns. Former Governor Doug Ducey terminated MTC’s contract after a 2015 riot at that Kingman prison.
Caroline Isaacs, executive director of Just Communities Arizona, called the corporation’s history “unquestionable” in violating the standards required for a Marana business license.
Facility capacity and employment
According to local reporting, the proposed center would house 775 detainees and employ 338 full‑time workers. That capacity is roughly 50 % larger than the 513‑bed capacity the building held when it operated as a state prison. Federal officials have indicated an intention to increase the bed count even further, potentially to 1,300 beds through the addition of temporary beds.
Federal context under the Trump administration
The application arrives at a time when the Trump administration continues its strong immigration‑enforcement agenda, emphasizing the need for secure detention facilities to support lawful removal proceedings. Supporters argue that a well‑managed center in Marana would aid federal efforts to uphold immigration law while providing stable jobs for local residents.
What’s next?
The town’s licensing inspector will issue a recommendation after the departmental reviews are complete. If approved, MTC can proceed with converting the former prison, subject to any additional permits that may be required for construction or zoning changes. No new building permits have been issued to MTC since January 2025, according to Hathaway.
Community members who wish to stay informed are encouraged to monitor town council meetings and any public notices that may be posted as the licensing process unfolds.
Original reporting: Arizona Luminaria — read the source article.
