JSIP Key Milestones and Current Funding Details Presented to Board

On December 6, 2022 at the Benton County Board of Commissioners meeting, Justice System Improvement Program (JSIP) Manager Nick Kurth and Benton County Chief Financial Officer Rick Crager provided the Board with a presentation of key JSIP milestones and current funding details about the projects under consideration for a proposed bond measure.

View the Board packet (page 42) for the funding details.

The Board is scheduled to resume the funding discussion at their December 20 meeting, which is open to the public. There will be time for public comment.

The JSIP planning process started in 2018 with a comprehensive review of all aspects of the Benton County justice system. Since then, the County has hosted more than 40 meetings and presentations to engage the public and gather community input.

The following facilities are under consideration for the bond:

Resources for expanded mental health and homelessness services facilities
A new correctional facility with areas for mental health and substance abuse treatment, education, and rehabilitation with a co-located Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Operations Center

A decision and Board vote on the final bond package is expected in January 2023. The County will continue to provide the community with updates leading to the bond measure planned to be put before voters in May 2023.