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Knox County approves part‑time per‑diem chaplain for corrections staff
Summary
The commission approved a part‑time, as‑needed per‑diem chaplain position for county corrections staff, citing confidentiality, voluntary participation and use of existing per‑diem budget lines; vote recorded 3–0.
The Knox County Commission approved a per‑diem chaplain position to provide confidential support to corrections staff and other county employees at its Nov. 21 special meeting.
The chief described a candidate who attended a week‑long police‑academy chaplain certification, has more than 30 years of corrections experience and would serve on an as‑needed, part‑time basis with no set hours. The chief and other presenters emphasized confidentiality protections for staff who use the service and that the role is non‑denominational and voluntary.
"It's totally voluntary. It's non‑denominational," the chief said while explaining that the county has used volunteer chaplains previously and now seeks a dedicated, as‑needed resource. Presenters said funding exists in the per‑diem patrol line of the budget to cover the position when used.
Commissioners expressed support for the measure, noting the chaplain could assist with stress management, debriefings and crisis mediation. The commission approved the job description by voice vote (recorded as 3 in favor, none opposed). The clerk was asked to reflect the vote in the minutes.
