Seward County officials are addressing critical staffing shortages at the county jail, which currently lacks six detention officers and one nurse. This issue was a focal point during the County Commission work session held on June 23, 2025.

Sheriff's Department representatives highlighted the urgency of filling these positions to ensure the safety and efficiency of jail operations. The discussion revealed that the jail is currently managed by Administrator Daniel Hadavanick, who has transitioned into this role recently.

Budget considerations were also a significant part of the meeting. If the county were to fill all vacant positions, the budget request would remain unchanged. However, if the positions remain unfilled, the budget could be reduced to approximately $1.39 million. This potential reduction reflects the ongoing challenges in maintaining adequate staffing levels while managing financial resources effectively.

Additionally, the county is currently utilizing a contracted nurse, which costs $2,000 per month, amounting to $24,000 annually. This arrangement raises questions about the adequacy of care provided and the overall efficiency of the current staffing model.

The discussions underscore the importance of addressing these staffing shortages promptly to maintain operational standards at the jail. As the county moves forward, filling these critical positions will be essential for ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates, as well as the effective management of county resources.