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Virginia Association of Counties honors Scott County for alternative-to-incarceration service program
Summary
VACO executive director presented Scott County with a VACO Achievement Award recognizing the county’s structured community‑service alternative to incarceration (started Feb. 2019). County officials said the program has reduced jail‑related costs about 30%.
The Virginia Association of Counties presented its Achievement Award to Scott County for an alternative‑to‑incarceration program operated in partnership with Duffield Regional Jail.
Dean Lunch, identified in the meeting as executive director of VACO, said the county’s program—where eligible participants join a structured work program after a screening process—has focused on community service, education and workforce skill development since it began in February 2019. “Since its inception in 02/2019, this program has made a meaningful impact,” Lunch told the board; he said Scott County had realized about a 30% reduction in jail‑related costs since the program started.
Lunch described the award competition as highly competitive, with judges evaluating innovation, collaboration and potential for replication. He said Scott County’s entry scored well on innovation and replicability and invited the board and staff to view the program as a model for other localities.
Board members congratulated program staff and asked for a group photo. The presentation was ceremonial; no board action was required.
