Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Corrections Health topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Lancaster County approves $360,000 study of jail medical and behavioral health needs
Summary
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a professional services agreement with HDR Architecture Inc. not to exceed $360,000 to perform a 12-month medical and behavioral health needs assessment of the county adult detention facility, citing overcrowding and inadequate treatment spaces.
The Lancaster County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously May 19 to hire HDR Architecture Inc. to conduct a medical and behavioral health needs assessment for the Lancaster County Adult Detention Facility. The contract is not to exceed $360,000 and runs for 12 months after execution.
Corrections Director Brad Johnson told commissioners the county’s jail population has increased in recent years and ‘‘the medical and mental health areas in the facility have not kept pace with the needs of individuals requiring specialized care,’’ forcing staff to use spaces not designed for vulnerable populations. Commissioners said overcrowding and placements of inmates out of county underscore the need for the study.
Commissioner Matt Schulte asked whether the review could recommend procedural changes, remodeling or expanded capacity; Johnson said the scope is broad and will consider operational and facility options. The board recorded a 5-0 vote in favor of the contract.
The assessment will examine housing areas, infirmary and mental-health capacity and is expected to take up to 12 months because of its complexity. Commissioners said the study aligns with county strategic goals and could inform future budget and facility decisions. The county did not specify follow-up deadlines beyond the 12-month term for the contract.
