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Crawford County commissioners reauthorize jail work-release program
Summary
The Crawford County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted Resolution #2026-015 on April 10 to reestablish a county work-release program, with staff saying the program places costs on participants and was requested by the chief judge.
The Crawford County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution April 10 to reestablish a county jail work-release program, approving Resolution #2026-015 by unanimous vote.
County Counselor Jim Emerson presented the resolution and said the proposal restores a program the county had used previously. Sheriff’s Department Human Resources/Finance Officer Adam Harrison described how participants would be vetted and said the program was revived at the request of the chief judge.
Commissioners pressed staff on program mechanics. Commissioner Carl Wood asked whether inmates must provide their own transportation; Harrison said participants are required to have their own transportation and that the program is structured so inmates pay to attend, noting that "it does not cost taxpayers." Wood also asked what would happen if an inmate cannot afford the fee; Harrison said that decision would be left to the court. Undersheriff Jason VanBecelaere also participated in the explanation.
The board adopted the resolution by motion (26-175). The formal recording of the motion lists Yeas: Commissioners Wood, Moody and Blair; the motion "prevailed" in the minutes.
The resolution document included procedural language authorizing the work-release program; the minutes do not specify hourly rates, cap on participants, or an implementation timetable. Commissioners directed staff to proceed with the program implementation steps described in the resolution and in discussion, and to return with any operational details required for follow-up.
Next steps: staff will finalize program paperwork and administrative procedures as described in the resolution and return to the board for any further approvals or clarifications.
