Commissioners discuss joining '2 Bridges' steering committee for regional corrections

Commissioners and county staff spent a substantial portion of the Jan. 10 meeting discussing prospects for joining a regional corrections authority known in the meeting as '2 Bridges.' Staff described the county's expected initial role as nonvoting membership on a study or steering committee to build collaboration among counties and local agencies.

"It wouldn't give us any voting authority, but this committee would allow us to set the foundation to work with the collaboration of 2 Bridges," a staff member said, describing the committee's purpose as preparatory. Speakers said the intent is to pursue regional collaboration to manage growing demands for corrections and related services.

Officials noted that becoming a formal voting member of the authority will likely require state legislation to add the county as a statutory member. The chair and other commissioners warned that if every jurisdiction joins at the same membership strength, the governing body could become very large, so membership size and representation rules will need negotiation.

Commissioners discussed who should represent the county if it joins: several speakers suggested the sheriff, the jail administrator or a commissioner, and named local individuals who have expressed interest. Staff said other counties typically have about six people on their steering committees and that the county might initially send fewer representatives. A steering-group meeting was scheduled for March 11 at 3 p.m.

Staff later reported that the county's operational transition to the regional facility had been smoother than expected so far, with limited public complaints but continuing questions about transport logistics and scheduling.