After the December, 2021 tornado, the jail had to be demolished along with the courthouse. As a result, inmates went to other county jails, some on the other side of the state.
As Graves County also lost their court facilities, cases were not processed, which increased the inmate count. The county inmate population soared to over 250 at times.
They said the inmate count has trended down now to an average of 169 last year. With fewer county inmates, they are now housed closer to Graves County, and General Fund transfers to cover the jail's budget shortfalls are slightly reduced.
Commissioners said the price tag for a new jail is $24 million to $50 million, depending on size.
They stated that Graves County is not able to bond tens of millions of dollars to build a new jail, and the Fiscal Court does not believe it is wise or responsible to pass that cost along to taxpayers.
The court believes the low tax environment of the county is an asset and they do not want to burden the taxpayers with generational debt.
Commissioners said that rebuilding a jail is by no means a guarantee, but the county is hopeful that funds will be allocated by the state.
In the short-term, housing inmates closer to home saves on fuel and vehicle maintenance costs. Housing agreements and contracts are currently being discussed with nearby counties and their respective Jailers.
They are hopeful this will ease the strain on the budget and provide safer transfer for jail deputies. Second, establishing a Jail Operations Center will provide much needed support not only to jail staff, and the Circuit and District Court System.
The JOC will house offices, cells and additional space not currently available. By adding this building, individuals who are arrested on nights and weekends will be able to be housed in Graves County and not transported until day shift.
Both of those initiatives are currently in progress.
(Photo: Damage to Graves County Jail after the 2021 tornado)
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