Hammond Asks $3.2 Million Budget Increase, Including 16 New Correctional Officers

  • Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Sheriff Jim Hammond told members of the County Commission on Tuesday he needs to hire 16 additional correctional officers as part of a $3.2 million increase request.

The budget request would raise the sheriff's office spending from the current $29.9 million to $33.1.

He said, "The 16 correctional officers would bring us up to the level recommended by the Grand Jury. Grand Jury after Grand Jury has talked about the need to add more security at the county jail."

The new jailers would cost almost $1 million.

Sheriff Hammond said the jail is having to deal with increasing numbers of inmates with mental issues, causing higher medical and transport expenses.

He said the cost for Erlanger Health System to provide medical services at the jail is going up by $156,000.

Sheriff Hammond said he is asking for an additional court officer to provide backup for court security and protection for judges as well as four more detectives.

He again requested implementation of the Bridge Plan that he said would allow some officers to retire before reaching age 62 and be replaced by younger officers.

The budget also includes an increase of $45,000 for mandated meetings and seminars and $50,000 more for jail food.

The sheriff said capital outlay expenses include 25-30 new patrol vehicles.

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