Council concerns rise over SCORE jail's high custody death rate and management issues

In the heart of Renton City Hall, a palpable tension filled the air as city council members gathered for their meeting on March 24, 2025. The evening began with a stark presentation regarding the SCORE jail, which has recently come under scrutiny for its alarming death rates. A council member voiced serious concerns, revealing that since SCORE's inception 14 years ago, 15 individuals have lost their lives while in custody, with 11 of those deaths occurring in just the last two years. This statistic places SCORE's in-custody death rate at three times the average for Washington jails, raising urgent questions about the facility's management and care standards.

The council member highlighted a particularly troubling case of a woman who died from dehydration and malnutrition, emphasizing the need for accountability and reform. "No misdemeanor is worth a death sentence," they declared, urging the city to demand significant changes from SCORE or consider alternative solutions. The emotional weight of these words resonated throughout the chamber, underscoring the critical nature of the discussion.

Following this intense dialogue, the council moved on to the consent agenda, approving several items, including an agreement to join the Eastside Transportation Partnership, which aims to secure fair transportation investments for Renton. The council also discussed funding allocations for affordable housing in South King County, with a resolution passed to allocate over $269,000 to support housing initiatives.

As the meeting progressed, the finance committee presented multiple reports, including a significant amendment to a legal contract and funding for energy audits, reflecting the city's ongoing commitment to infrastructure and community welfare. The council's decisions demonstrated a proactive approach to addressing both immediate and long-term needs within the community.

In closing, the council president announced the next meeting scheduled for April 7, where discussions on disaster recovery and other pressing issues would continue. The evening concluded with a call for an executive session to discuss labor negotiations and potential litigation, leaving the community with a sense of anticipation for the changes that lie ahead. The meeting encapsulated the challenges and responsibilities faced by local government, as they navigate the complexities of public safety, community health, and infrastructure development.