Editor:
Elections are on the horizon. Time for what can be the usual rhetoric from those seeking election and/or re-election to their office. Time to listen to "what we need," which most already know.
"What I can do for you," the county, the state, and the nation. etc., etc., etc. (proof is in the pudding). Most certainly "actions speak louder than words" and unfortunately they have been acutely lacking in many areas lately.
Time to think outside the box for those living in Pershing, Humboldt, and Churchill counties. We are all faced with a common problem - no money. Additionally, all are faced with the real issue of needing new or replacement of infrastructures, namely jails!
It hasn't come up in recent discussion at our county commission meetings, but rest assured, it will and sooner than most of us wish it to. "Out of sight, out of mind" is what they are. And they are very expensive to build, administer, staff and maintain.
I suggest that all three counties establish an investigative committee and pursue the possibilities of establishing a Tri-County Detention Center possibly adjacent to the Lovelock Correctional Center.
It is reasonable to assume this location could serve all counties well. Construction costs could be lower, the proximity to the prison could reduce operational costs, offer POST-certified training staff and facilities, provide meals, laundry, courtroom with closed circuit TV for arraignments, emergency medical facilities, water and sewer, emergency power generators and many other amenities. Low risk, non-violent adjudicated inmates could be housed in an adjacent work camp and serve all counties.
Pershing County School District operates Coal Canyon High School at LCC. This program could be made available to the jail facility through closed circuit broadcasting. Education is a proven deterrent to recidivism.
The Tri County facility could operate effectively by staffing with Category III Correctional Peace Officers thereby reducing cost and utilizing their Category I Deputies more efficiently, on patrol duty, where they are needed.
There are some facilities similar to this that have established jail industries programs with entities such as AmeriCorps whereby inmates are hired and paid while incarcerated, pay room and board, pay court ordered fines and victim impact fees further reducing their operating costs and possibly aid in some rehabilitation of the offender.
Time is rapidly evaporating. Investigating these possibilities now rather than at "panic time" seems reasonable to me and I hope also to the residents, incumbents, and candidates of the tri-counties.
James P. McHugh
Lovelock[[In-content Ad]]
