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Wayne County extends Allied Universal security contract amid sheriff’s staffing shortages
Summary
The commission approved a one‑year extension to its Allied Universal security contract, not to exceed $5.29 million, while the sheriff's office continues recruitment and academy training to return deputy staffing to courts.
Wayne County commissioners granted immediate approval March 19 to Amendment No. 2 to the county’s contract with Universal Protection Services/Allied Universal, extending supplemental security services through March 2027 and increasing the not‑to‑exceed amount to approximately $5.29 million.
Vanita Terry, chief of administration for the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, and Kevin Tolbert, the sheriff’s chief of staff, described the county’s staffing situation: the contract began with roughly 62 Allied personnel assigned to court sites and related locations; that number is down to about 35 contractors while the sheriff’s office runs recruitment and training efforts to certify additional deputies. Tolbert said active recruitment and academy scheduling aim to reduce dependence on contractors over the coming year.
Frank Hardister, court administrator for the Third Circuit Court, said the court continues to work with the sheriff’s office to assess staffing and appreciates the board’s support while vacancies persist.
Commissioners asked for updates on certification and training plans; county staff said they expect to send recruits to academy classes this spring and fall and will return updated staffing projections to the board. The extension was moved and approved by voice vote.
What’s next: Deputy recruit classes and internal reorganization plans are underway; county staff will provide periodic staffing updates to the commission and the goal is to wind down contractor reliance as deputies are certified.
