County zeroes in on re-entry prison location

The latest report by the county now reveals that officials were looking at some 14 properties across Kings County as possible state re-entry rehabilitation prison sites over the past three months.

The county could submit up to three properties to the state, but they are rather zeroing in on just one property: a parcel at the corner of Highway 43 and Lacey Boulevard.

On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors will review the land acquisition prospects for the 500-bed re-entry facility -- the state's new attempt to reduce the re-offense rate by helping inmates who want to go straight before going back into society during the last year of their sentences.

By building the facility, the county will get $30 million in return from the state to expand its overcrowded jail.

The county could submit up to three potential sites for the state's review, but the administrators are recommending the decision-makers enter an agreement with the state for just the Highway 43-Lacey site.

In other business, the board will consider approving a professional agreement with Taylor Teter for the design and construction oversight of the multi-purpose building proposed as part of the Burris Park outdoor educational program master plan.

The board is also scheduled to consider approving a contract with the state for a program designed to enhance the local ability to reduce the burden of asthma in residents.

Today, the supervisors were scheduled to review the proposed county budget and final changes to the spending plan for the next year, as the California budget impasse hit Day 56 after deadline.

The county decision-makers in late June adopted a preliminary budget calling for a $7.5 million spending cut over last year's $222 million. Although this year's budget is lower at $215.8 million, it places general fund expenditures at $167 million, a slight 3.5 percent increase from last year's $161.3 million.

General fund, the only discretionary money in the budget, pays for the county's everyday operations, including law enforcement and public safety.

The county is currently on a hiring freeze.

The budget calls for eliminating 8.85 full-time equivalent positions that are currently vacant, but county officials say there won't be any layoffs.

The Board of Supervisors meets at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the Board Chambers, 1400 Lacey Blvd., Hanford.

The reporter can be reached at 583-2429.

(Aug. 25, 2008)