The bids are in and it's time to start comparing. Three private companies want to assume management of the trouble-laden Alachua County jail, and county commissioners have to pick the best candidate.
Privatization is one of three management options being considered by the commission.
County or sheriff management still is a possibility. When considering the private firms, Commissioner Margaret Eppes said she will focus on how much each company will charge the county. Commissioners also have expressed concern with employees' job security and benefits, which Eppes said will be a deciding factor in her choice of companies. Also it will play a major role in her final decision about the jail's management structure. Mark Hodges, the Tallahassee-based consultant who created the proposal request, will be at the workshop to give commissioners suggestions and feedback.