National Institute Of Corrections experts say the problems Madison County
faces with it jail population is similar to what they are seeing elsewhere

NIC architect and technical resource provider David Bostwick said our jail
population problems of Herion addiction, mental health issues, and  inmates
that come in with medical issues are ones they are seeing all over the
country.  

Correctional facilities architecture has become highly specialized,
including facilities for inmates with special-needs such as medical, mental
health, and skilled nursing. The population within corrections facilities
has changed, requiring innovative approaches to mental and physical health,
and rehabilitation.  (AUDIO Here is Sheriff John Mehr)

Madison County Sheriff John Mehr arranged, through the National Institute
of Corrections, for jail architects and other experts to hold information
sessions for county commissioners, sheriff's department personnel, county
leaders, and others.  The purpose is part of the phase 1 and 2 planning of
a new jail and criminal justice complex before the actual design process
begins.

Bostwick said it is vital for planners to think through their needs before
the build.  (AUDIO  This is David Bostwick ) Not considering all the
different needs of the inmate population as part of the planning can give
you a facilty that won't suit your needs and mean either additions or new
facilities and that can be costly.

Sheriff Mehr said all the work done so far has not cost taxpayers of
Madison County any money.  These are all resources available at no charge,
the conferences, seminars, and training sessions, even the travel was
covered.  We need to do this because it is the taxpayers money that will
eventually be used to build this facility and we need to do it right. 
Plus, in the long term we will have a facility that will last for 30 years.
Sheriff Mehr added that the federal government continues to require jails
to stricter guidelines and those that don't face penalties  
In addition to increasing the bed space the sheriff hopes to including
additional space for programs and activities for inmates.  The activities
will include programs for education, mental health counseling, life skills
programs and more.  Justice and other research shows that inmates given
activities while incarcerated are more easily and safely supervised, and
less likely to return after release.  Additionally, it is more codst
effective and provides a safer envir onment for jailers and inmates.  

Mehr said his department plans to start meeting with jail architechs next
week and will then have a better idea of the timeline for costs and design
start.