Jail worth considering
Marion County Commission may be opening a can of worms after discussion this week about a commercial jail facility in the county. It is, however, a proposition worthy of discussion.
Commissioners last week discussed "farming out" prisoners housed in Marion County Jail to the Chase County facility. That could be construed as a double-edged sword — not only does it get rid of the county's jail population, it gets rid of some much-needed county revenue.
The commission now is considering the possibility of Marion County's own commercial jail. Instead of sending prisoners away, the county facility would house inmates from other areas.
Commissioners decided to explore the feasibility of a commercial jail. It's bound to be a controversial and emotional topic. Hopefully the commission will look at it from every angle, explore every opportunity, and make a decision based on knowledge, not emotion.
A new jail facility would be a multimillion dollar investment, funded by bonds. The facility should be well-planned, without cutting corners, and follow the old adage — "you get what you pay for."
Similar jails in the state are viable money-making ventures. Wilson County's 60-bed facility nets $1,200 per day. Chase County nets $40,000 per month and is planning a $2.5 million expansion.
Marion County could capitalize with a similar facility and operation. It could turn into an economic development boon for this county — and what brings in money for the county has a trickle-down affect to the cities, and ultimately to taxpayers.
It's worthy of consideration.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
