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Pulaski County sheriff warns jail showers are deteriorating; staff point to special jail and cumulative jail funds as possible payors
Summary
The county discussed inspection findings that jail showers are rusting and may require replacement; commissioners were told roughly $19,600 remains in a special jail fund and about $255,000 is available in a cumulative jail fund that is narrowly tailored to jail repair or construction.
Pulaski County commissioners heard that the county jail’s showers are rusting and may need replacement after a state jail inspector noted the condition in the latest inspection report.
The sheriff said the jail passed inspection but that the inspector “said, you guys need new showers,” and that photographs show rusted fixtures, failing caulking and lighting problems; he told commissioners he has asked his jail commander, Steven Taylor, to solicit bids and that he will show commissioners the affected cells if they wish. The sheriff said he did not know whether replacement will cost $20,000, $200,000 or $400,000 and that bids are being sought.
County budget staff told the meeting that Pulaski County has two narrowly targeted reserve funds that are eligible for jail capital work: a special jail fund with about $19,600 remaining and a cumulative‑jail fund with roughly $255,000 plus accrued interest. Staff quoted the cumulative fund’s statutory language describing its permitted uses as “construction, repair, remodeling, and enlarging, and equipment of a county jail.” Commissioners were told these funds have not been used regularly in recent years and could be applied to address the shower repairs rather than drawing from the general fund.
Why it matters: failing or unsafe shower facilities could create operational and compliance risks for the jail; using narrowly targeted, long‑standing reserve funds would reduce pressure on the county’s operating budget.
Discussion and next steps The sheriff said bids are being obtained now and offered to provide photos and blueprints to commissioners. Staff recommended evaluating the two targeted funds as potential payors for repairs so the county does not need to reallocate recurring general‑fund dollars. No formal appropriation or transfer was recorded at the meeting; commissioners discussed the options and asked for follow‑up information and cost estimates.
Ending The county will await bids and staff confirmation of available fund balances before any formal decision or transfer related to jail shower repairs.
