In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implementation of a new digital reading program for inmates at Lackawanna County Prison, which will provide access to over 5,000 ebooks and audiobooks at no cost to the inmates. The program, facilitated by ViaPath, is funded through canteen funds—derived from inmate purchases—ensuring no taxpayer money is used. The annual fee for the service is estimated at $16,000, based on an average daily population of around 800 inmates.

The meeting also included a financial report from the controller, which revealed that as of August 31, 2024, the inmate account balance stood at $497,139.70, while the canteen account had $449,322.70. Additionally, the canteen account holds an investment balance of $923,311.83, which is expected to mature in January 2025. During August, $86,658.24 was allocated from the canteen account for the welfare and education of inmates.

The Community Corrections Center report highlighted that there were 172 participants in house arrest programs, generating revenues of $57,397.61. The report noted a total of 31 program completions and 8 violations, with ongoing efforts to address outstanding house arrest warrants.

Warden reports indicated an average daily population of 747 inmates, with staffing challenges persisting as 90 officers are on intermittent Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave. A new training class for correctional officers is underway, with 10 cadets expected to graduate in October.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the hiring of new correctional officers, reflecting ongoing efforts to bolster staffing levels amid current vacancies.