On March 24th the Dem Gaz reported that Pulaski County Judge Buddy Villines told the Quorum Court “it’s time to add more beds to the jail”. It was further stated, “The 2008 estimate of about $4 million to expand the jail by 240 beds has grown to $5.3 million, Villines said.” This is a cost of about $22,084.00 per bed.
On March 9th the Dem Gaz reported that the Arkansas Department of Corrections requested $184 million to build space for up to 2,000 more inmates. (Apparently Governor Beebe turned down this request). This is a cost of about $92,000.00 per bed.
If these figures are accurate and both build facilities adequate to house felons, Governor Beebe should ask Judge Villines to construct the beds for the State Department of Corrections.
A savings of almost $70,000 per bed totals $140 million for the State and delivers the needed additional beds.
With that kind of money, the Governor could afford a chauffer to drive him around and free more State Police to look after the citizens since the Gov is planning to release some 3,000 to 9,000 ‘non-violent’ criminals onto our highways and byways. Heck, the state could even purchase more cars for employees to drive around.
Governor Beebe, give Judge Villines a call ASAP!
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