Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Jail Operations Mat topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sheriff updates commissioners: MAT program started, multiple jail repairs and staffing challenges remain
Summary
Sheriff Sam Page and detention commanders reported the jail has begun medication-assisted treatment (MAT) services, repaired showers and kitchen equipment, and continues to address staffing shortfalls, lighting and door repairs; inspections and documentation practices were discussed at length.
Sheriff Sam Page and detention commanders briefed Rockingham County commissioners on repairs, staffing and the launch of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program at the county jail.
Operational staff reported completed work on 33 showers, replacement of an irreparable tilt skillet in the kitchen, removal of an obsolete jockey pump, and progress on sprinkler-system checks and lighting repairs. The sheriff’s operational commander said MAT services at the jail began Feb. 1; Southern Health Partners is conducting clinical screening and administration, and as of the briefing three inmates were receiving MAT or continuation of care.
Staff described routine maintenance work still in progress: painting cells and pods, addressing corridor lighting whose fixtures have dry rot, repairing food-tray locking mechanisms on some doors and replacing a damaged sally port bottom bar once ordered parts arrive. The detention staff reported being short six detention officers and noted inmate population pressure — the jail capacity was discussed as 232 beds with daily counts above 200.
Commissioners asked for clarity on inspection metrics and documentation. Captain Kevin Brown (reported by the sheriff) provided random sample percentages for required welfare rounds — figures such as 98, 93 and 91 percent were cited as on‑time compliance in sample reports. The sheriff’s command said the facility aims for 100 percent compliance, acknowledges operational challenges (medical transports, court movements and staffing), and has increased supervisory checks and daily reviews of paperwork.
Commissioners pressed how Southern Health Partners determines MAT eligibility and how staff will track MAT status. The sheriff’s office said Southern Health Partners performs screening and determines candidates for treatment; MAT status is recorded in the jail’s electronic system and conveyed to staff for continuity of care.
The sheriff’s team said they are scheduling in‑service training for detention staff on searches, suicide watch procedures, mental‑health recognition, overdose response, use of force and other topics; Southern Health Partners provided training on MAT implementation for staff. The sheriff also said the county has worked with maintenance and vendors to keep parts and supplies in inventory to avoid delays.
Commissioners asked the sheriff to ensure accuracy of reports submitted to the state and to county maintenance; the sheriff said county legal counsel has provided recommendations and that leadership will spot‑check reports going forward.
No formal vote was required; the session ended with commissioners thanking the sheriff’s staff.
