In September we raised community voices questioning the current plan to remodel the South County Jail complex. At present, the plan calls for retaining up to 800 beds in the remodel which, with the 367 beds in the north county jail, would raise the total jail population to over 1000. The current population is only around 600. In addition, the plan does not include structural reforms for humane treatment and reducing recidivism. Details (see 9/3 letter). This plan is now being revised.
The Supervisors asked the CEO and the Sheriff to select an expert jail population projection analyst to consider new reforms and long -term trends to accurately project the SB jail population. Each bed currently costs taxpayers more than $88,000 per year. We asked for a pause until an accurate number is agreed upon and the cost of a basic humane facility like north county jail be made public. The less beds needed the more money for a humane facility.
Our Workgroup has been collaborating with the SB League of Women Voters Social Justice Committee. We have met with key Criminal Justice Department heads and several County Supervisors.
We support the paused vote until after public input Nov 9th.
Submitted by: Co-Chairs Maureen Earls and Larry Severance
