Discussion and possible action to approve the purchase of needed replacement jail padding for cell number 111 in the amount of $24,063 from Marathon Engineering Corporation for the Webb County Jail, and authorization to transfer funds from Account #605-3001-8801-7 to Account #605-2001-8801 in that same amount of $31,930 to pay for this purchase; and any other matters incident thereto. [Account #605-2001-8801] [Co-Sponsored by Jesse Gonzalez, Commissioner Pct. 1]
Issue: This jail cell at the Webb County Jail that is used for those inmates who exhibit self-harm/suicidal tendencies, violent inclinations and/or are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. The padding of this cell has comprised to a degree of deteriorated condition that it presents a threat to the safety of these types of high risk inmates. The padding of this cell has
been torn by an inmate while in custody. This is a liability for the County Jail and safety measures have to be taken on these types of high risk inmates.
Solution: The purchase of new padding will improve jail operations for the increased safety and security of high risk jail inmates who are suicidal, exhibit a propensity to hurt themselves and others as well as the correctional officers guarding/supervising them.
Result: Through the purchase of the needed repairs, Webb County will avoid liability issues regarding the padding of this jail cell and the high risk inmates who utilize the padding.