2/14/14 - Local Democrats are not only questioning the need, but the make-up of county committees currently studying an expansion of the Livingston County Jail. Livingston County Democratic Party Chairwoman Judy Daubenmier says the perspective of taxpayers as well as defense attorneys are absent from the committees that are examining the jail expansion, which consist of commissioners and judicial members. Daubenmier says defense attorney representation on the committee is vital to make sure that every alternative and possibility has been explored before spending $14 (m) million plus interest and $2 (m) million annually for constructing and operating a bigger jail. She says the history of jail and prison expansions shows that once more cells are added, they fill up and cost more money. The complete press release issued is attached. Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Carol Griffith says the board has been looking at the jail improvement for a couple of years and there is a need for an expanded jail due to overcrowding and the types of inmates being housed including changes in the male and female populations. Now that they have a fairly good handle on the bricks and mortar costs, she says a new committee will be examining the costs associated with operations and sustainability. Griffith says the jail is a very complex issue involving complex cases and inmates but many groups work together and Livingston County is continually looking at community alternatives for the jail and will continue to do. She noted the possibility of restored state revenue sharing that could help with jail operations and have also talked about the possibility of renting bed space to generate revenue. The new committee held its first organizational meeting today and Griffith says it will determine what other input and committees will be needed, including citizens and stakeholders. (JM)
↧