Commission schedules regional briefing on jail plans, affirms sheriff remain co-located with jail

The Ramsey County commission directed staff to set a special meeting and regional briefing with partner counties and the city to present the law enforcement center (LEC) building committee's work and to discuss plans for a new jail. Commissioners also passed a motion stating the sheriff's office should remain located in the county law enforcement center unless a replacement jail includes a co-located sheriff's facility.

Commissioners said the city of Devils Lake had proposed moving its police department and explored off-site options; that uncertainty prompted the county to invite county partners, the city and other stakeholders to the LEC building-committee meeting so all parties can hear the current plan, funding posture and short- and long-term options. County leaders said they will invite Benson, Nelson and other partner counties and will offer a facility tour for commissioners and sheriff representatives who have not yet toured the existing facility.

The board passed a motion to add this briefing to the June 18 meeting agenda and to invite participating counties and city representatives. The commission then voted by roll call to state its preference that the sheriff's office remain co-located with the jail, a position commissioners said supports staff continuity and operational integration.

Commissioners and staff said major design and funding questions remain and that any future jail project will likely require broader intergovernmental agreements and possible public financing steps. The law enforcement center building committee agreed to present project background, site options and funding updates at the scheduled briefing.