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Sheriff warns aging jail generator and dispatch systems risk operations; replacement options discussed
Summary
The Blackford County Sheriff briefed commissioners on an aging jail generator with transfer-switch failures (repair estimate about $40,000) and options for replacement and radio/dispatch updates that may cost tens of thousands; he said funding exists and he will return with recommendations.
The Blackford County Sheriff told commissioners April 8 that the jail’s aging generator and transfer switches are failing, causing intermittent power and that repairs could exceed $40,000. He said the existing generator is original to the facility and described instances when the generator struggled to start and produced heavy smoke.
The Sheriff said he obtained three quotes for new generators. He added that the county’s dispatch equipment and radios need attention; he described one vendor quote around $18,000 and discussed an ongoing maintenance agreement that historically cost approximately $11,000 per year. The Sheriff said the department has some budgeted funds and would bring recommendations back at a future meeting.
The Sheriff also reviewed the jail population and staffing context: the jail held 64 inmates (11 female) at the time of the meeting.
No formal action was taken at the April 8 meeting on the generator or dispatch systems; the Sheriff asked the board to consider the projects at a later session after he returns with more complete pricing and options.
Provenance: topicintro SEG 1073, topfinish SEG 1224.
