The Choctaw Nation recently purchased the former Big Lots warehouse, the tribe announced last week.
In November, The City of Durant addressed rumors that had been circulating in the community about the possibility of the former Big Lots Distribution Center being turned into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility.
In a statement on social media, the city said that, “Officials have reason to believe that a detention center is being considered for the Big Lots facility in Durant. At this time, the city has not been directly contacted regarding this proposed facility.”
In a January meeting, the council passed an ordinance that requires a conditional use permit for anyone wanting to operate a detention center in the city. However, the federal government could override city zoning ordinances.
In January, the Choctaw Tribal Council passed a resolution opposing a detention center.
“We oppose the location of the proposed ICE holding facility near the Choctaw Nation headquarters in Durant,” Choctaw Chief Gary Batton said. “We are extremely concerned about the proposed facility’s close proximity to our day care, child education center and large employee base, which provides programs and services to our tribal members, including children and elders.”
The purchase price of the building has not been disclosed, and the tribe cited economic opportunities as a reason for the purchase.
“The Choctaw Nation’s continued growth is creating new opportunities to strengthen our economic impact and expand our long-term business strategy,” Batton said. “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 is an opportunity to enhance our presence and continue driving economic prosperity for our tribal members and the surrounding community.”
Big Lots opened in 2004 on Enterprise Drive, and it closed in 2025 due to financial struggles.