Benefits of prison need consideration

I read in The Gazette's editorial (“Closing this prison doesn't add up,” March 13) that the Luster Heights correction facility was under consideration for closure. I also understand this issue has come up in the past and fortunately the facility has not been closed.

I'm writing from the perspective of a mentor who has experience working with an offender who spent the last two years of his incarceration at the Luster Heights facility. My mentee has shown me he has excellent work ethic and a very positive attitude, and that he's willing to put some past bad decisions behind him and get on with his life.

The Luster Heights facility was instrumental in helping my mentee attain the success he has seen since his release two years ago. I urge Iowa legislators to carefully weigh the cost versus benefit and preserve the facility for the benefit of current residents and future offenders.

Steve Hostert

Cedar Rapids