Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office adjusts inmate housing amid budget concerns

Starr County's budget concerns took center stage during the recent Commissioners Court meeting, as officials discussed the housing of inmates and its financial implications. The county reported a total revenue of $225,406 from housing inmates, including 109 federal inmates and 47 from Hidalgo County. However, this figure reflects a significant drop of $192,806 compared to the same period last year.

The discussion highlighted the shifting dynamics in inmate housing, particularly with Hidalgo County now operating its own jail. This change has led to a steady count of 44 Hidalgo inmates currently housed in Starr County, with an additional 28 inmates transferred last Friday. Federal inmate numbers have also seen a slight increase, reaching 111, but officials noted that the rise is not substantial.

The budgetary impact of these changes is a pressing concern for the county. Officials are exploring options to alleviate overcrowding in nearby Webb County, which is currently facing an inmate overflow. A contract proposal has been sent to Webb County, with discussions around a daily rate of $65 for housing inmates.

With a capacity of approximately 325 beds, Starr County could accommodate about 80 more inmates, which could help stabilize the budget. The court's focus remains on managing these inmate populations effectively while addressing the financial challenges that arise from fluctuating housing agreements.