On March 14, the Choctaw Nation Council passed a bill approving the purchase of a 1.2 million-square-foot facility formerly owned by Big Lots. The Big Lots distribution center, which employed over 300 workers before closing in January 2025 due to the company’s financial difficulties, was acquired to help support the tribe’s long-term business strategy.
Choctaw Nation’s Acquisition and Plans for the Facility
In a statement following the council’s approval, Chief Gary Batton confirmed the acquisition, highlighting its potential to boost the tribe’s economic growth. Batton emphasized that the Choctaw Nation is evaluating various ways to utilize the property as part of their broader strategic vision.
He stated, “We are evaluating how to use this adjoining property as part of our efforts to support operational growth and exploring a variety of potential uses that align with our strategic vision.”
This acquisition provides an opportunity for the tribe to enhance its presence in the region and further drive economic prosperity for both tribal members and the surrounding community. Batton also mentioned that the facility’s potential use will be carefully considered to ensure it aligns with the tribe’s broader goals.
Opposition to the Potential ICE Detention Facility
The property’s potential use as an ICE detention facility has been met with significant opposition. Concerns about the facility’s proximity to the Choctaw Nation’s governmental headquarters and vital community services prompted both the Durant City Council and Choctaw Nation leadership to take precautionary measures.
In January 2026, the Durant City Council passed an ordinance making it illegal for any detention center to operate without a conditional use permit. This move came after reports surfaced suggesting that the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office had been in discussions with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about using the former Big Lots facility as an ICE detention center.
Chief Batton voiced his concerns about the location, stating it was “unacceptably close” to critical facilities like childcare centers and elderly services. He compared the situation to having a detention facility near the White House, emphasizing the risks to both tribal members and the broader community.
Batton’s Position on ICE Facility
Batton made it clear that while the Choctaw Nation opposed the detention center in its current location, he would not be entirely opposed to the establishment of an ICE facility on the reservation—provided it was situated in a safe and controlled environment.
Batton referenced McAlester, where a prison exists, noting that every county has its own jail. He stated, “It’s not that I would oppose having a facility that houses bad people, if you know what I’m saying.”
However, Batton stressed that the location of such a facility was of utmost importance, particularly given the tribe’s significant investment in local community services and economic development.
The Acquisition and Financial Details
The exact amount paid by the Choctaw Nation for the Big Lots distribution facility remains unclear. The Bryan County Assessor’s Office has yet to receive all the necessary paperwork to confirm the cost of the property. Regardless of the financial details, the acquisition represents a major step for the tribe in expanding its business and economic influence.
This acquisition follows a broader trend in Oklahoma, where local efforts to prevent the establishment of ICE detention centers have gained traction. For example, in Oklahoma City, a potential warehouse site that was under consideration for an ICE facility was dropped after Mayor David Holt intervened and confirmed that discussions with DHS had ended.
Content Summary Table
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Choctaw Nation Acquisition | The Choctaw Nation acquired a 1.2 million-square-foot facility previously owned by Big Lots |
| Purpose of Acquisition | The property will support the tribe’s long-term business strategy and economic prosperity |
| Opposition to ICE Facility | Concerns were raised about using the property as an ICE detention center, especially given its proximity to the tribe’s governmental headquarters and community services |
| City Council Action | The Durant City Council passed an ordinance requiring a conditional use permit for detention centers |
| Batton’s Statement | Chief Gary Batton expressed concerns over safety, but did not oppose an ICE facility in a safer location |
| Previous ICE Facility Opposition | The Choctaw Nation’s position follows the prevention of an ICE facility in Oklahoma City in early 2026 |
