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County commissioners ask state for jail funding; Auburn leaders discuss impacts and alternatives
Summary
County commissioners told Auburn councilors the county jail is under flat funding pressure and urged municipal support for asking the state to increase its share. Council members raised 911 costs and a proposed sheriff’s office facility; the city said it offered co-location at a new public-safety building to reduce bond costs.
Andrew Lewis, chair of the Androscoggin County Commission, and Commissioner Jane Penethy briefed the Auburn City Council on Jan. 21 about county priorities, with an emphasis on jail funding and facilities.
Lewis said the county faces a funding squeeze for jail operations because state contributions have been flat for years while costs and new standards for addiction and mental-health services increased. “Without an increase from the state… we’re charging all of the cities…
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