HC Jail in need of some repairs and upgrades

Jail related topics were presented to the Howard County Quorum Court Monday by Sheriff Bryan McJunkins.  During the budget committee meetings in December, the sheriff mentioned that the local jail stays at capacity most of the time, due to the increasing number of felony arrests being made.  Yesterday, the sheriff discussed upcoming 911 equipment upgrades, but said before those could be made, repairs to the jail roof are needed.  Several leaks are now occurring in the 30 year old building, including to the room where the jail’s electronics are stationed.

The sheriff reported restrictions are now being eased on how federal Covid-19 funds can be spent, and the roof repair, along with a possible jail expansion, will now qualify.  Sheriff McJunkins said he will seek bids on the roof project and report back to the quorum court.  Howard County is scheduled to receive over $2 million dollars in federal Covid funds.