Stephenson County renewed a three-year intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the King County Juvenile Justice Center on Oct. 8, approving a per-diem rate increase from $1.75 to $2.25 per day.

County staff described the contract as a routine renewal needed to maintain juvenile detention capacity. The board heard that the county has housed 12 juveniles in the current year (some may be repeat stays) and has spent about $77,000 through September; the FY2026 budget anticipates $120,000 for juvenile services.

The IGA renewal drew brief praise from board members who said they had visited the facility and were impressed with its operations. A county official noted the increased per-diem was not intended to generate profit for the provider but to cover operating costs.

The board approved the three-year IGA by voice vote after a motion by Mr. Hadley and a second by Miss Williams. No amendments or additional conditions were recorded in the meeting transcript.

County staff will continue to use the facility under the renewed agreement and will manage juvenile placement and billing consistent with the contract terms.