COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Over 600 prisoners at Lakeland Correctional Facility in Coldwater have been transferred to other prisons after the maintenance staff discovered mold in the attic space of two housing units.
Officials say there is no indication this is black mold, but testing found that the mold levels in the attic space was problematic and needed to be addressed. The air handling system is separate from the areas of each attic where the mold was discovered.
The Michigan Department of Corrections stated that while it is technically safe to stay in the units, they made the decision to move the prisoners out so that repairs can be made. The repairs were expected to take a few months.
The facility was nearly full when the decision was made to transfer the prisoners. The goal is to return these same prisoners to Lakeland once the repairs have been completed.
No other mold has been found after the rest of the facility was inspected. Further testing is scheduled as a precaution.
Officials add concerns about water at the prison are unrelated. The facility uses the Coldwater Board of Public Utilities for its water supply.
There have been some sporadic issues that result from hydrant flushing as well as the freezing and thawing of the water tower that results in sediment being loosened in the water system. This can result in temporary discoloration and a smell to the water, but testing has shown that the sediment is not dangerous.
They’ve also been informed that these issues are impacting many municipal customers, so it is not limited to the prison.
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