The Graham County Jail facility, addressing urgent health and staffing issues.
Graham County is addressing health and pay issues within its jail, where hazardous materials like lead-based paint and asbestos pose significant risks. Staff concerns over low pay and unsafe conditions are leading to staffing shortages. Efforts are underway to improve these conditions, including a proposed $30 million justice center to replace outdated facilities. Community engagement is planned to discuss future developments and solutions.
Graham County is actively addressing ongoing issues at its county jail following reports of hazardous conditions and insufficient staff compensation. During recent meetings, county leaders discussed necessary steps to improve safety and working conditions for both staff members and inmates.
Central concerns involve hazardous materials such as lead-based paint and asbestos present within the jail facility. These materials pose potential health risks to staff and inmates. A project manager has indicated that efforts are underway to remediate lead paint, with a timeline of approximately two months for completion.
In addition to health issues, staffing challenges are a significant focus. Detention officers in Graham County start with an hourly wage of $14.50 and can earn up to $15.75. These rates are below regional averages, prompting concerns among staff members about job retention and safety. A jail staff member expressed that they were not adequately informed about the risks associated with hazardous materials and plans to leave their position due to health and pay considerations.
The county’s management recognizes these issues. County Manager Brady Cody confirmed that the complaints about working conditions are being addressed and that resource allocations are being evaluated to potentially increase salaries. Additionally, discussions are ongoing with the sheriff’s department to identify budget areas suitable for adjustments aimed at improving staff pay and safety measures.
To resolve the stability and safety problems at the current jail, county leaders are proposing a comprehensive solution through the development of a new justice center. The proposed facility is estimated to cost approximately $30 million. The county is in the final stages of selecting a site for construction, signaling a major step in infrastructural improvement plans.
A public meeting is scheduled to discuss the jail’s conditions and the upcoming projects. The meeting will take place on Thursday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Robbinsville community room. This forum aims to provide transparency and gather community input on the proposed changes.
Graham County faces immediate challenges regarding health and staffing within its jail. Efforts are underway to mitigate health risks, including asbestos and lead paint remediation, while exploring options for salary increases to retain qualified staff. A larger infrastructural project involving a new justice center aims to directly address longstanding issues and improve conditions for everyone impacted. Community involvement through public meetings remains an essential part of the process.
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