Citrus County commissioners voted Monday night against ending a jail contract with the Betz Farm facility. The decision was made during a meeting at the Citrus County Board of Commissioners Chambers, 405A W. Baker St., Inverness.
The proposal to end the contract was brought forth by Commissioner Scott Boyett, who expressed concerns about the financial burden of the contract on the county. However, a majority of commissioners voted against the proposal, citing the need for the jail facility to house inmates. The current contract with the Betz Farm facility is set to expire on December 31, 2024.
The Citrus County Chronicle reported that commissioners also discussed the possibility of exploring alternative options for housing inmates, including the construction of a new jail facility. However, no decision was made on this matter during Monday’s meeting.
Commissioner Boyett stated that he would continue to explore options for reducing the county’s costs associated with the jail contract. The county currently pays around $1.2 million per year to the state for the use of the Betz Farm facility.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
