DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is seeking $16.3 million for critical facility upgrades to ensure safety and compliance with national standards. During the recent FAB Committee meeting, Sheriff highlighted the urgent need for capital improvements to address the deteriorating conditions of the county's aging correctional facility, which is over 30 years old.

The Sheriff emphasized that the request is not merely for cosmetic enhancements but essential repairs that impact both inmate welfare and employee safety. Key issues include a leaking roof, outdated plumbing fixtures, malfunctioning elevators, and inadequate security systems. These problems not only compromise the safety of the facility but also hinder the efficient transport of inmates, particularly for medical needs.

The proposed funding aims to replace the roof, upgrade plumbing to stainless steel, and improve the locking systems, among other necessary repairs. The Sheriff noted that maintaining compliance with the American Correctional Association and other accreditation bodies is crucial for the facility's operation and reputation.

In addition to the Sheriff, several key staff members were present to provide insights and answer questions regarding the proposed improvements. The urgency of these upgrades was underscored by the potential risks associated with the current state of the facility, which could lead to further complications and costs if not addressed promptly.

The committee's decision on this funding request will significantly impact the future operations of the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office and the safety of both inmates and staff.