Department: Sheriff
Department Head/Elected Official: Ed Gonzalez, Sheriff
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Financial Authorization
Project ID (if applicable): N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): Southwest Correctional, LLC (DBA LaSalle Corrections)
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWDBE Current Achievement (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: 0% - Non-Divisible
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request for approval of funding in the amount of $7,622,000 for outsourcing of part of the inmate population.
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Background and Discussion:
Given recent events in the jail and a mandate from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS), it has become necessary to effect an immediate reduction in jail population through outsourcing. In addition, a major jail renovation project is set to begin sometime in 2022 that will require a diversion of part of the jail population. Assuming the jail population remains constant with the present average stay per inmate of over 200 days (versus 65-85 days pre-Hurricane Harvey and Covid-19), it is anticipated that outsourcing may be required for a period of up to seven years.
Expected Impact:
Outsourcing an average of 600 inmates per day will allow redistribution of existing jail staff and facilitate a safer environment for both inmates and HCSO personnel. This outsourcing will also help clear needed space in the jail for the renovation project.
Alternative Options:
Criminal Justice system improvements could help lower jail population and reduce the necessity for outsourcing. Housing space at 1307 Baker Street is also being explored but this option would require investments and changes to that facility along with additional staffing.
Alignment with Goal(s):
x_ Justice and Safety
_ Economic Opportunity
_ Housing
_ Public Health
_ Transportation
_ Flooding
_ Environment
_ Governance and Customer Service
Prior Court Action (if any):...
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