Commissioners hear $1,000,002.99 jail budget line and debate unpredictable inmate health-care costs

County staff reviewed the jail and inmate health-care budget, noting that the materials showed a total jail budget figure presented as $1,000,002.99. Staff explained the county contracts with Alger Correctional Healthcare to manage on-site medical decisions and that many inpatient and prescription costs are driven by individual cases.

The county’s detention capacity and usage were discussed: "We have 50 beds. We could house up to 52. Our average daily counts about 33," a staff member said, underscoring how fluctuating inmate populations and medical needs make the line unpredictable. Commissioners noted revenue from housing other counties’ inmates and meal charges offset some costs but expressed concern about large monthly swings driven by hospital or Blue Cross claims. The board asked staff for guidance on the budget assumption for 2026; staff referred to a figure presented in the packet as "1.65" for next year and asked the commissioners for direction on what to include in the budget, noting uncertainty over case counts and medical-cost volatility.

Members asked for careful accounting of timing so that December charges are recorded in the correct year and urged staff to budget conservatively to avoid mid-year shortfalls.