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Inmate medical bills and out‑of‑county housing push Freestone County jail expenses higher
Summary
Sheriff told commissioners of a large upcoming inmate medical bill and ongoing out‑of‑county housing costs that have driven jail spending higher; officials said they have sought reimbursement from TDC but have not yet received expected funds this year.
The sheriff reported a significant inmate medical bill expected to appear on the next accounts‑payable list and said reimbursements from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDC) for medical and housing costs have been inconsistent this year.
Officials said the county currently houses roughly 40 inmates in other counties to manage capacity and cost; moving inmates to lower‑cost counties was described as a routine measure. Commissioners said they will invoice the state for medical and housing costs when appropriate but noted that no reimbursement had been received for recent invoices at the time of the meeting.
The jail's FY26 budget after a recent transfer stands around $1.08 million; staff reported spending to date and warned that medical and housing costs could continue to drive the line items above initial estimates. Commissioners also noted that commissary funds are again available and could be used for capital replacements (a new oven or washing machine) rather than coming from the general jail capital budget.
Staff said they will follow up on outstanding invoices and provide an update on pending reimbursements and any needed additional transfers at a subsequent meeting.
