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Comstock, Elevatus present jail expansion options; remodel would provide about 110 beds but require an 18-month vacancy
Summary
County and contractor representatives told the Richland County commissioners that remodeling the existing Law Enforcement Center would yield about 110 beds but require the facility to be vacated for roughly 18 months; the board discussed funding options, including bonding and a possible finance committee.
Comstock Construction and Elevatus representatives presented conceptual estimates for remodeling and adding on to the Richland County Law Enforcement Center during the Nov. 12 commission meeting. Jason Flack of Comstock said the cost estimate to remodel and add on was similar to building a new facility.
Dave Sholl (joined by phone) and Comstock representatives Tyller Kellen and Olivia Yost reviewed a Conceptual Estimate Summary. Sholl told commissioners that a remodel option would allow for about 110 inmate beds and would require the jail to be vacated for approximately a year and a half, creating significant displacement of both staff and detainees during construction.
Commission discussion centered on how to finance the project and how to manage displacement. Commissioner Nathan Berseth suggested consulting a bonding agent to determine whether proof of revenue would be sufficient to secure financing. Commissioner Tim Campbell proposed forming a finance committee to assist in finalizing a business plan and funding strategy.
No formal motion to proceed with construction or to select a preferred option was recorded in the minutes. The board discussed next steps for evaluating costs and financing; commissioners did not adopt a contract or set a schedule during the meeting.
