The St. Croix County Committee of the Whole convened on July 22, 2025, to discuss pressing issues regarding the county jail population and future infrastructure needs. The meeting began with a review of a study conducted a few years prior, which projected the jail population over the next 10 to 15 years. Currently, the jail has a total capacity of 184 inmates, with a functional capacity recommended by the state at 147 inmates to ensure safety and reduce tensions among inmates.

As of the meeting, the average daily population was reported at 112 inmates, with a peak of 141 inmates on a recent Monday. Officials noted a trend back to pre-COVID levels, with projections suggesting an increase to between 118 and 140 inmates per day by 2025. The discussion highlighted concerns that if the population exceeds 150 inmates, the county may need to transfer inmates to other facilities, which could incur rising costs estimated at $60 to $65 per day per inmate.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the average length of stay for inmates, with half of the population remaining for only 1 to 4 days. Plans for a new booking and receiving center were proposed to alleviate pressure on the jail by allowing these short-term inmates to remain in a temporary holding area rather than being integrated into the general population.

Concerns were raised regarding the rising jail population despite a reported decrease in crime rates. One supervisor questioned whether fewer convictions might be contributing to the increased inmate numbers and expressed a desire to avoid the construction of a new jail, which could cost taxpayers millions. The sheriff acknowledged the importance of managing costs while ensuring the safety of jail staff and inmates.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a booking center to manage short-term inmates effectively, potentially delaying the need for additional housing facilities. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the county in balancing public safety, inmate management, and fiscal responsibility. Further steps will be taken to explore the proposed infrastructure improvements and their implications for the county's correctional system.