Slowly but surely, jail progress is taking place
Jail plans appear to be falling into place rather nicely now.
While there were several stumbling blocks on the way to selecting a jail architect and determining how much money to spend on a new facility, those problems are in the past.
The Jail Oversight Committee, gaining valuable expertise from long-time builders Kenneth Bratcher and Dyer Grissom, is now working out the kinks of the actual jail design. For folks who thought a new Warren County jail would only become a reality under the mandate of a federal judge, this is welcome news.
It’s obvious most law-abiding citizens don’t like the idea of footing the bill for a jail – something they’re not going to use. The idea of paying for a $6 million jail makes the thought even more unappealing.
But if we keep in mind the fact we have to keep criminals off the street for the safety of our community, we must also remember there are guidelines to how we house those prisoners. Considering the county’s current situation, a new jail is a must.
That said, commissioners are proceeding in an appropriate manner and with the county’s best interest in mind. By consulting with Sheriff Jackie Matheny, who in turn has been talking over jail design plans with his deputies, architect Jim Armstrong is receiving important feedback about his preliminary designs. This will only serve to make the finished jail product better.
It’s refreshing to see the lines of communication are open between county officials. Instead of giving the plans a hearty OK without the consent of the sheriff, commissioners appropriately decided to consult the man who will use the facility on a daily basis. And as a person with first-hand knowledge about what’s needed to operate a jail, there’s no better person to ask than the sheriff.
Also chief among items of concern is purchasing additional property located adjacent to the jail. Commissioners are concerned about offering fair market value for the acreage and that is certainly a noble gesture.
No one wants their property snatched away against their will, whether it’s for a new road or a new jail. That’s why commissioners are acting appropriately in trying to settle this matter without intrusion from the courts.
This newspaper hasn’t shied away from voicing displeasure toward the actions of the Warren County Commission when it appears commissioners aren’t acting according to the best interest of this county and its citizens. We’re also more than happy to applaud the efforts of commissioners for work that’s well done. That’s continuing to take place on the Jail Oversight Committee.