Some Thoughts on the New Jail Proposal | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Here is my line of thinking:

    (1) The old jail can be renovated for a fraction of the cost
    (2) It is right next door and eliminates the cost and danger of transport.
    (3) Since when do we have to have "comfort and nice" for people who are being held a few days to get their day in Court?

    A lady responds: Unfortunately Gene, it isn't that simple. We absolutely need a new Jail, we are financially in the best position to get it right now, and every time this other group succeeds in delaying it, the price tag gets higher.

    Another lady adds: A lot of jail inmates aren't held just for a few days. Some are there for months, even as long as a year or more, awaiting their trials.

    But a new jail isn't needed just to provide "comfort" or just to be a "nice" facility. The present jail is too small, and expanding it would eliminate most of the already-too-scanty parking available at the courthouse.

    Most new detention centers include the means for many of the inmates' hearings to be conducted via television, which eliminates the cost and dangers of transporting inmates. Visitation is also via CCTV, which is also safer than in-person visits.

    The old jail is unsafe for employees, as well as inmates. The cost to Beaufort County of a catastrophe at the jail would undoubtedly far exceed the cost of a new, safer facility

    My final thoughts:

    I'm not saying what we have is "adequate."

    What I am saying is:

    (1) Renovation is cheaper than a fresh build.
    (2) A smaller jail means you think twice before arresting someone and get on quickly with those awaiting a trial.
    (3) If people need to be kept a long time, therein lies the need for an alternative ---- why not make it an existing Prison???
    (4) Another alternative is to use prisoner's time and skills to build some fringe housing around an existing facility. We do have such all around us!!!

    Let's do some more thinking outside the either/or box trapping us right now. It is OUR TAX MONEY which is being spent. Do it with wisdom and a sharp pencil on the cost.

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