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Officials debate jail role in mental‑health care as DOC calls for better classification and receiving space
Summary
Department of Corrections and county counsel briefed supervisors on classification standards, Chapter 51 distinctions, and how long waits for state treatment beds complicate local jail operations; HHS staff described grant‑funded in‑jail behavioral health services that are time‑limited.
The meeting included an extended discussion of mental‑health needs, classification and the limits of county authority to treat people under civil Chapter 51 placements.
Brad Hoover of the Department of Corrections reviewed minimum standards and said objective classification and trained staff are core requirements under DOC administrative code 350. "The big thing you're hearing a lot this morning is classification," Hoover said, emphasizing that modern jail populations involve higher levels of violence, mental‑health needs and substance issues than in earlier decades.
Corporation counsel explained the difference between civil Chapter 51 placements (which go to approved treatment facilities) and criminal holding in county jails: "Under a chapter 51, they cannot be placed in the jail," she said, stressing the jail is not an approved treatment facility and transports to state facilities remain a separate civil process.
HHS Director (Bob) reviewed in‑jail services funded through opioid settlement dollars and a part‑time SCIP (State Crisis Intervention Program) grant therapist, noting the SCIP grant ends in September and long‑term funding will require levy support or additional grants. He said the county has an ongoing CJCC subcommittee looking at competency restoration and jail‑based restoration programs.
Supervisors asked about regional approaches, availability of detox beds and the county's ability to treat to competency locally; presenters said some jail‑based competency restoration models exist but they require coordination with state DHS and sustained funding.
Next steps: HHS and CJCC staff offered to provide a future joint presentation on Chapter 51 procedures and long‑term options for competency restoration and detox alternatives.
