Asotin County has set new jail bed rates, making it easier for residents to understand costs for housing inmates.
Asotin: So, the county officials had a busy meeting recently. They talked about a bunch of stuff, including the daily bed rates for the new jail and even asked for volunteers for the upcoming fair and rodeo in 2025.
The new jail is being built on Sixth Avenue in Clarkston Heights and should be ready by the end of April, according to Commissioner Chuck Whitman. He’s been a big part of this $20 million project.
They’ve decided on the bed rates too. It’ll be $180 a day for inmates from outside the county and $125 for those from Asotin County, Clarkston, and Asotin. Right now, the state pays about $99.90 per day to house prisoners in Clarkston, but that contract ends in June. The new rates will kick in once everything is approved.
There’s a public update on the jail scheduled for February 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Asotin County Fire Station. They’ll also discuss wolves and plans for the Union Gospel Mission shelter.
Commissioner Chris Seubert mentioned that the fair board is gearing up for the 2025 Asotin County Fair and Hells Canyon Rodeo, which is happening at the end of April. They really need more volunteers, so if anyone’s interested, they should reach out to the fairgrounds.
In other news, the commissioners approved tourism grants for four local groups, funded by lodging tax revenues. Visit Lewis Clark Valley is getting $90,000, while the aquatics center, Asotin Museum, and the fair are also receiving funds.
They also approved an agreement for law enforcement assistance between the sheriff’s office and the city of Asotin. Plus, they gave the thumbs up to a new wildfire protection plan for the county, which replaces an older one from 2008.
It’s all about keeping the community safe and engaged!
