Amerson urges County Commission to plan to replace jail

Calhoun County Jail

Calhoun County Sheriff Larry Amerson asked the Calhoun County Commission Thursday to starting planning to replace his jail, saying it's overcrowded, old and too costly to maintain.

Commissioners agreed that with constant overcrowding and rising maintenance costs, it’s time to start planning to replace a jail that will hit its 30th birthday next year. But while officials agree a new jail is needed, they don't yet know of a way to pay for it.

Commission Chairman Tim Hodges, said he supports the sheriffs desire for a new jail and has already had informal discussions about it with the sheriff and county administrator.

Joiner said jail construction costs have risen considerably since the current one was built three decades ago. The county paid $7 million to build the current jail. Joiner estimates it would cost around $40 million to build a modern jail.

Commissioner J.D. Hess said he hopes the state or federal government, or both, would help shoulder some of the cost burden for a new jail. In any case, the commission must start planning to replace it before it falls below state standards.

Joiner said the jail has faced overcrowding for years. The jail was built to house 330 inmates, but routinely holds more than 400.

Joiner said that wear and tear is costly. The commission is currently footing a $400,000 bill to repair and renovate the jail’s showers.