Barry County approves jail master plan contract; commissioners describe current jail as "horrible"

Vice-Chair David Hatfield and the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Feb. 11 approved a contract of up to $42,000 with Abonmarche Byce to complete a Jail Master Plan, with funds to come from the Building Rehabilitation Fund. The contract was listed among the consent items the board approved by roll call.

The action was part of the consent package approved after a motion by Bob Teunessen and support from Jon Smelker; the roll call vote was unanimous among members present. The contract language in the consent packet authorized the county administrator to sign a professional services agreement with Abonmarche to develop plans for replacing the Barry County Jail.

Why it matters: Commissioners described the short-term condition of the county jail as a driving factor for commissioning a master plan to evaluate replacement location and costs and to guide eventual decisions about design and funding. Commissioner Bruce Campbell said after touring the facility that he found the conditions "horrible," and several board members said the study will help the board make practical, fiscal decisions.

Public input and oversight: Gary White of Castleton Township raised concerns during public comment about the jail feasibility study and about the Facilities Ad Hoc Committee overseeing related work. Commissioners responded with remarks emphasizing the study’s advisory role; Vice-Chair Hatfield said he verified that procedures used to hire the consulting company were appropriate and that the firm was retained for advisory services.

Next steps: The jail master plan will be produced by the consultant under the approved professional services agreement and paid from the Building Rehabilitation Fund. No construction or final site decision was made at the meeting. The board adjourned at 9:29 a.m.