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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Harris County commissioners are set to consider allocating over $100 million for jail improvements while also contemplating the construction of a new facility.
The Harris County Jail has garnered significant attention from state leaders due to the deaths of nearly 50 inmates over the past two-and-a-half years. Last month, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards informed the sheriff’s office that it would lose more beds unless it hired additional officers. The specifics of how these beds will be lost remain unclear. Already, over 1,500 inmates have been relocated out of the area.
The sheriff’s office reported to on Monday that the jail is currently understaffed by 180 workers. To attract more employees, commissioners approved a 12% raise last year, resulting in the hiring of 108 new officers over the past three months.
Instead of focusing solely on salaries, county leaders are considering significant infrastructure investments. On Tuesday’s commissioners’ court agenda, there is a proposal to spend $122 million on 12 projects addressing critical issues such as plumbing, electrical systems, and security enhancements. The committee emphasized the urgency of these projects to prevent potential system failures. Additionally, the county is moving closer to the possibility of building a new jail, with plans to hire a design consultant soon. This summer, county employees intend to visit jails across the country for insights.
sought comments from the sheriff, judge, and administrator on the rationale behind investing millions in jail improvements while considering a new facility, but no one was available for an interview.
Despite the challenges, the number of inmate deaths has been decreasing. Two years ago, 27 inmates died in the jail, while last year saw 19 deaths. So far this year, three inmates have died. Although these numbers are improving, state and county leaders assert that more measures are needed to enhance safety.