The $69 Million Solution

Platte County jail to be expanded on with the Safety Committees reccomendation

On November 8th, 2023 the Committee for Public Safety in Platte County started finishing their recommendation for a new jail to solve for overcrowding.  The committees estimated cost for renovations and the new facility totalled $69 million, $8 million higher than the initial projection.  Renovation for the courthouse will acquire $20 million from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Plans include not just renovating the courthouse, but adding 320 beds to the jail where there are currently only 151 beds.  The jail is currently operating at an estimated 200 inmates according to the Platte County Presiding Commissioner Scott Fricker.  By adding additional beds, it is projected to help the jail operate better and solve for overcrowding.  The committee stated, “adding another 300 beds probably will be a 25 year solution.”

Jeff Harmon, Clay County Sheriff, agrees with the Safety Committee on their recommendation for overcrowding.  He said that without the needed space, signature bonds could potentially be given to violent offenders.”  These violent offenders would then be released back into the public, threatening public safety.  Harmon also stated a new jail would improve living conditions for inmates.  Having more space can lead to better hygiene, less violence and less strain on resources according to Irma Carlson, author for ADJJ.

However, not everyone supports the suggestion.  Local Platte County resident, Kathryn Kersting, said that a new jail just prolongs the problem and “soon it will just be a country full of prisons and jails.”  Retired English teacher and Platte County resident, Mark Lidman, expanded on what Kersting said, offering another solution.  Lidman stated “revamping the justice system is how to actually fix overcrowding.”  

Once finalization of the safety committees recommendation is complete, it will be passed on to the County Commissioners.  The issue is set to be put on the ballot for August or November 2024 for voters to approve money for the project.