The St. Francois County Commission voted Jan. 6 to accept a one‑year contract to outsource jail food services to the lowest qualified bidder, identified in the meeting as Veil Food Service/Trinity Services Group.

During the presentation, the vendor representative Summer explained billing is handled on an average‑per‑detainee basis and that meal cost varies with population levels. Summer told commissioners the company would use the county kitchen, hire cooks (with the contract covering cook expenses), and work with county staff for transition meetings and training.

Commissioner Buckley moved to accept the bid; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. Buckley said the contract is expected to reduce the sheriff’s departmental expenses, estimating it will “save around about $300,000 a year.” The sheriff’s office and commission said the vendor has positive references from other counties and that a one‑year contract will allow the county to assess service performance.

Sheriff Jeff reported the county’s weekly inmate population stood at 111 and supported the need for a reliable meal provider. Commissioners asked whether the vendor would require the county kitchen; staff confirmed the vendor will use county facilities while supplying food and (where applicable) hiring cooks from the local workforce.

The contract was approved as a one‑year arrangement; commissioners and staff said they expect to monitor performance and costs through the contract term and adjust future budgets accordingly.