Resolve jail and courthouse facility issues

While 2015 was a year of challenges and accomplishments for Johnson County, many issues will merge into 2016.

The County's Secondary Roads main shop was completed in the spring of 2015. This was necessary after fire destroyed the facility and much of the equipment in March of 2013. The facility was enlarged to provide needed space for maintenance work and daily operations.

The new building created an opportunity to advance the board of supervisors' efforts toward centralization of fleet functions by merging Secondary Roads and SEATS paratransit mechanics into a shared facility. The board also appointed a new Transportation and Fleet Director, who will guide the transition to fleet management for most of the County-owned vehicles and equipment. Fleet management is expected to be in full operation by late 2016.

Construction is expected to begin on a facility to combine the Johnson County Ambulance Service and Medical Examiner functions in 2016. The present ambulance building is inadequate and not designed to allow major alterations. As the County upgrades its ambulances to provide better emergency services, the newer units require larger door openings. A new facility will create efficiencies by sharing office staff between the departments. This facility has been planned for many years; however, it was put on hold awaiting the outcomes of jail and courthouse bond issues.

As most residents remember, a series of bond referendums for jail and courthouse improvements were approved by a majority of Johnson County voters; however, did not reach the 60 percent approval necessary for passage. The courthouse and jail remain deficient and will continue to be topics of discussion for 2016. Nearly $1 million is currently being spent on the jail to provide critical upgrades for safety and operational needs. Prisoners continue to be transported to and from other counties for holding and court appearances, which is costly and exposes Johnson County to unnecessary liability. The Board of Supervisors will continue discussing how these issues may be resolved.

Courthouse security and space needs are areas of concern. The Board approved the construction of a secured entrance and exit to the present courthouse and construction has begun.

Space issues within the courthouse, including the County Attorney's Office, are being evaluated. There is inadequate space for the operational demand and activity within the facility. Courtrooms need to be updated and remodeled to accommodate technology, to implement safety measures, and to accommodate people with disabilities. The Board will be working with the County Attorney and Courts toward easing these issues.

Johnson County's Jail Alternatives program, a function of the Sheriff's Office, continues to provide new and innovative options to incarceration, easing demands on both the jail and courts. In August of 2015, the Board of Supervisors passed a resolution supporting the national 'Stepping Up” initiative to reduce the number of people with mental illnesses in jail. Staff and community leaders have already been participating in advanced training, and these efforts will continue into 2016 and beyond.

Johnson County has much in progress and on the horizon. The County's year-end report, department information, and more can be viewed at www.johnson-county.com. My intention is to continue working on all issues in the best interest of the residents of Johnson County and doing so in a fiscally responsible manner. I welcome your input, comments, concerns or any ideas on any issue pertaining to the County.

' Pat Harney is chairman of the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. Comments: pharney@co.johnson.ia.us