Salt Lake County officials presented a comprehensive plan for a public safety bond aimed at addressing critical needs within the county's criminal justice system during a recent government meeting. The proposal, which received bipartisan support with an 8 to 1 vote from the Salt Lake County Council, is set to be placed on the ballot this November.

Kelly Colopy, the Human Services Director, and Matt Dumont, Chief Deputy of the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Corrections Bureau, outlined the bond's objectives, emphasizing a balanced approach to public safety and human services. The initiative seeks to expand the county jail's capacity, which has not seen new beds since 2000, and to establish a new Justice and Accountability Center (JAC) that will provide wraparound services for individuals with low-level offenses.

The JAC aims to reduce recidivism by offering mental health and substance use treatment, housing assistance, and case management, creating a structured environment for those transitioning out of the jail system. This facility is designed to serve individuals who may not require jail time but still need support to navigate the criminal justice system effectively.

The total cost of the bond is projected to be just over $600 million, with an estimated monthly cost of under $5 for residents and under $9 for businesses. The county has already allocated $100 million to kickstart the project and plans to utilize the sale of Oxbow to further support funding.

Officials highlighted the importance of addressing systemic gaps, particularly in supportive housing and mental health services, to prevent individuals from cycling through the jail system due to issues like homelessness and untreated mental illness. The bond proposal reflects a collaborative effort among county leaders, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to create a more effective and humane criminal justice system.