Report explains 15-man estimate

      Yesterday, the Washington County Board of Supervisors said they'd work to make a decision on whether or not it is feasible to build a 42-bed expandable jail in Washington County within six weeks' time (The Journal, Jan. 27).

      Working closely with the Sheriff's Office, the supervisors will take into account a staffing projection provided them by Durrant Group Architects of Dubuque. Salaries will play a big part in deciding whether or not the county can afford to pay for the jail on a lease-purchase agreement with the architects, using existing budget money.

      Earlier this month, Durrant Group estimated that between 12 and 23 staffers would be required to operate a new jail.

      Yesterday, Durrant Group nailed down a 15-jailer figure, excluding staff needed to keep guard over prisoners hospitalized in Iowa City.

      Durrant Group's staffing projection:

      Permanent posts-Durrant Group identified two posts in a proposed new jail that would require a jailer present 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Those two posts include a position in the control center and one in the living pods.

      From the control center of a pod-style jail, all doors, lights, electronics, etc., are monitored and controlled. One person needs to be in the control center at all times.

      In the living pods, one officer is also required to provide direct supervision to prisoners round-the-clock.

      Between these two positions, 9.8 jailers would be required, according to Durrant Group's estimates.