Valley County’s sheriff updated the board on Jan. 12 that patrol staffing is nearly at target — the department is one deputy short during training cycles — while dispatch remains down two positions and some candidates are in background checks.

The sheriff said the office has launched a Quick Response Team (QRT) for advanced situational response (not a tactical team), built closer working relationships with Ada County and other regional partners, and routinely debriefs major incidents to identify training or equipment needs.

He reported 18 felony arrests since Oct. 1, ranging from attempted homicide to aggravated assaults, and described recent overtime costs from multiple incidents (examples given: $4,116.21; $5,380; $3,922; and a $7,500 call‑out), noting some deputies have worked 24‑hour shifts during operations. The jail population typically ranges 45–52 inmates, mixing state and county inmates.

For FY25 the sheriff said the state billed $833,945 for inmates; year‑to‑date billing for the current budget year is $193,116.62. The sheriff emphasized staff teamwork in managing these operational demands.

What happens next: The sheriff will continue recruitment and training, and commissioners asked staff to schedule a jail visit for the board. The sheriff requested the board’s continued support for direct supervision and training investments as personnel assume new responsibilities.