Douglas County committee weighs options for youth detention facilities, including state YRTC and private operator proposals

The Douglas County Child Services Committee debated facility options for youth detention during a May 22, 2025 meeting, weighing the original downtown detention plan, a two‑facility compromise passed in 2023, a private‑operator proposal and a state interest in leasing the downtown building for a Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center (YRTC).

Chair Commissioner Garcia opened the facility portion of the meeting by summarizing options that have been discussed over several years, saying the session was intended to capture "pretty much everything on the table in regards to tangible options" and that "today is not the day to make a decision." He described two primary buildings under consideration: the BCYC (40th and Woolworth) and the vacant downtown facility adjacent to the Justice Hall complex.

Commissioners and staff outlined four broad options under consideration:

- Move operations downtown (original plan): The initial design called for transitioning youth to the downtown detention facility near courts and probation. Proponents previously argued benefits would include proximity to courts and a more therapeutic environment. The county previously expected philanthropic contributions contingent on moving youth downtown; that contribution has not been triggered because the Woolworth facility has not been closed, staff said.

- Two‑facility model (board resolution, mid‑2023): Staff said the board passed a resolution in October 2023 to run both the…