One possible alternative would be to construct many smaller minimum-security facilities throughout the state. Local contractors could successfully bid on projects that could be in easy reach of smaller businesses. We could have local people building local prisons. Employee training for minimum-security facilities could be provided in each community. Our medium and high security facilities are adequate right now if all prisoners were properly categorized and placed.
Big jails cost big money.
State Budget Director, Earl Anzai says we are broke and can t afford to spend big money unless we downsize our government. Why not spend less, but spread it around to smaller businesses and communities. With small minimum security jails in each area, that only buy local produce and hire guards cooks, teachers, counselors, and maintenance services from that community, each community could share some of the economic benefits. A system of smaller jails will make sure the catastrophic burden of a 2,300 bed or larger prison does not have to be carried by a small, poorly served rural community. The idea that each community should take care of its own problems is not new.