A NEW software system intended to avoid crowding issues at the Belmont County Jail was looked into Wednesday afternoon at the weekly commissioners' meeting.
Such software systems would altogether provide county judges information concerning booking and bed availability at the jail.
The county judges deemed it "impossible" to give notice in advance as to who will be incarcerated, but said they could postpone the sentencings of non-violent offenders to a more convenient time when they know for sure the jail won't be full, according to Commissioner Mark Thomas.
The judges, however, would like to see some type of software to make it easier to communicate with the jail regarding the space issues.
"The commission is solely concerned about the best possible use of taxpayers' dollars for the Belmont County inmates while also possibly looking at other ways to generate revenue to help pay down our debt on the $5 million jail addition. Specifically, we are looking to lease space to other counties to help offset the new jail costs," Thomas said. "The board wants to first secure enough beds for our own population, but still wants the jail addition completed in a timely and efficient manner."
Sheriff Fred Thompson said the meeting that took place Wednesday with the commissioners and judges was merely a "brainstorming session to throw out ideas" about the software as well as the all-around efficiency of the jail.
"We're trying to get software throughout the state so each court could get on and see how much room is available in the jails," Thompson said. "We're just trying to get software that will most fit the bill."
However, Thomas said that all parties did agree that whatever procedure may be used, the safety of Belmont County residents was of "primary importance."
"The commissioners will continue to work the teamwork concept with both departments to ensure safety to our residents, employees and inmates while also doing that in a prudent fiscal way," he added.
In other news, commissioners presented a resolution that honored the Bellaire St. John Central Lady Irish Track Team for their outstanding 2007-08 season, including their participation in the OHSAA State Track and Field Championship, their performances in the Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium at Ohio State University, their back-to-back win of state championships, and their representation of Belmont County by being Division III State Champions.
"When you go to Columbus, or any other school district and have these meets, regardless if it's the state championships, yes, you represent yourself, and yes you represent St. John's, but sometimes you tend to forget you're representing our county," Thomas said of the Lady Irish. "You make Belmont County proud."
Commissioners also recognized Head Coach Bubba Kapral for his outstanding work with the team.
"I just want to thank you for having us here; it is an honor to represent Belmont County," Kapral said. "We do have some special ladies, and a lot of people didn't give us a chance this year, but they did it easier than last year, so I'm very proud of them."
In other action Wednesday, the board:
Matz may be reached at kmatz@timesleaderonline.com
