Funding for the Cherokee County Detention Center a Source of Concern

cherokee county detention centerThe problem of upkeep, and funding, at the Cherokee County Detention Center has been an on-going issue of concern for some time; and as we’ve seen in most every other community across the state and across the nation – there are no easy answers.

As the jail population continues to soar, money needed to help keep pace with such things as the rising cost of medical care for the inmates is hard to come by and unfortunately basic needs are sometimes simply overlooked, until it comes to a point where they can no longer be put on the backburner. Case in point – during a recent planning session of the Cherokee County Commission, Sheriff Jeff Shaver pointed out, that that the roof at the jail is seriously in need of repairs.

We spoke with Cherokee County Commissioner Marcie Foster about that issue and others –following a recent tour she made of the Detention Center.

Other basic necessities were also discussed:

Commissioner Foster also pointed out the need for making plans, and taking action as soon as possible because things aren’t going to be getting any easier in the future:

The issue of overtime at the jail was also addressed, with the county recently looking at the possibility of bringing in two new corrections officers to alleviate the problem. An analysis of the situation indicated that such a move, even with insurance and other factors added in, would lower the overall cost in regard to staffing.

Other costs include replacement of radios, tasers and the like.

Commissioner Foster told WEIS Radio News, some hard decisions will have be made during the budget session taking place later today (Monday, September 22nd)

Cherokee County Commission 011

 

 

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