June 4th, 2010
Inspectors say Hays jail meets state standards

STAFF REPORT

The Texas Commission on Jail Standards has officially lifted sanctions against Hays County over facilities standards problems at its jail.

Commission staff indicated that they consider Hays County in compliance with state rules following an inspection of the jail earlier today, Hays County officials said.

The nine-member Jail Standards Commission in November ordered the jail kitchen closed while repairs were made.

The county appealed, arguing that it had already begun contract letting for a new roof and worn out heating and ventilation system blamed for many of the problems. Hays County officials expect the pricetag for renovations to top $665,000.

A mobile kitchen was brought in to feed prisoners and staff while the jail kitchen was gutted and rebuilt to correct mold, ventilation and drainage issues, and prisoners were relocated to different areas of the jail as the roof and plumbing issues were corrected.

Officials expect written confirmation of the county’s compliant status from state officials next week.