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THURSDAY, JANUARY 12, 1995 <br />In discussing possible interim measures which the City'could implement <br />to deal with the immediate problem, Mr. Barry stated the'City must be <br />careful to ensure that interim measures do not become permanent. Among <br />possible interim measures, the following were discussed: (1) contract <br />females to other 3urisdictions; this would help the Sheriff with the <br />classification problem, however, the Sheriff currently cannot find <br />alternative locations within a reasonable distance; (2) combine the <br />Prison Farm and Jail under one authority; Mr. Barry said he realized <br />this idea is unpopular, however, this is the best way to run the <br />system; Mr. Barry stressed this point very strongly, particularly given <br />the different scopes of responsibility of the Public Works Director and <br />Sheriff; (3) hire additional staff' for the Sheriff's Office to address <br />some security issues; (4) construct some temporary space on the Prison <br />Farm property (or at another location). <br /> <br />The Mayor and members .of Council expressed appreciation to Mr. Barry <br />for his presentation. In response to a question from Councilman <br />Teague, the Sheriff estimated that 95% of all inmates are repeat <br />offenders. Also in response to a question from Councilman Teague, Mr. <br />Barry stated that the Henry County Jail is not as overcrowded as the <br />City Jail and that the County has some space for programs and <br />recreation. Mr. Barry said it was his understanding that the County is <br />in no position to get involved in the City's problems regarding jail <br />overcrowding due to the County currently being totally involved in <br />Courthouse construction. Mr. Barry said there is cooperation between <br />the City and County Sheriffs. <br /> <br />Sheriff Steve M. Draper said that over the past year he has learned of <br />the same things Mr. Barry noted, in particular, the danger to inmates, <br /> <br /> <br />