Jail....

For the last several years the discussion of the Jail has hit the paper a few times and been a hot topic of discussion. Jails are not a sexy topic of discussion but one we must address.

Do we MOVE out onto CR 140 on county owned land and build new - To build NEW we will be looking at a price ticket of $46M - $66M depending on the number of beds 230-300. The cost to operate over approx. 25 years will be in the ballpark of $197M-$185M.

With these options then there are discussions on how the old space will be utilized - probation, residential treatment, work release, crime lab, etc.

Do we STAY put and continue to maintain our current facilities - The cost to operate over approx. 25 years is in the ballpark of $180M-$266M

Right now, we are paying for the new court building, so we are not in a position in my opinion to move forward with a new build. When comparing the 2 options and looking out to the future there is serious discussion with the community that needs to be had because at the end of the day financing must be figured out and the community must understand and support it. The process is approx. 5 years once we go down the path so we will be there before we know it.

Looking at the numbers, the worst-case scenario to build vs maintain could be a wash with no significate difference in cost.

As commissioner I will communicate openly, listen and do my homework as we address the future of the jail.