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Juvenile detention budget request drops as average days decline; presenters outline cost pressures
Summary
County staff presented a juvenile detention budget request of $242,544.42 and said allotted detention days are down from prior years. Presenters noted insurance increases and that Secure Care funding remains under negotiation with the state.
County staff presented a juvenile detention budget request of $242,544.42 for 2026, saying the request reflects a decline in detention days and several cost pressures such as rising insurance premiums.
The juvenile-detention presenter told commissioners that the budget is calculated using a five‑year rolling average and that the requested funding in 2026 is tied to an allotment of 1,250 detention days. The presenter said Geary County used approximately 1,066 detention days in 2024, down from prior years, which reduces the county’s share under the funding formula.
Why it matters: detention funding is a significant part of county human-services expenditures and is sensitive to case volumes, which drive day counts and per‑day costs.
Cost drivers noted: staff said personnel and operating costs remain relatively flat but that insurance increased — the presenter cited an approximately $3,000 increase year over year. A switch from a previous insurer required shopping the market; the county moved from K‑Camp to a private insurer after K‑Camp declined to continue covering juvenile detention facilities.
Education and staffing: the presenter said the detention center’s education position will transition as a long-time educator retires and a new educator with corrections experience will start July 14 to maintain classroom continuity for residents.
Unresolved items: county staff noted ongoing discussions with the Department for Children and Families (DCF) regarding Secure Care funding and said outcomes may affect 2026 expenses. Commissioners asked for clarifications about food service and contracting; presenters said contracts are active and that DCF indicated current arrangements remain acceptable.
Ending: The commission accepted the presentation for inclusion in budget materials and asked staff to return with any updates tied to DCF negotiations or changes in projected detention days.
