The proposal includes new administration and corrections wings, as well as renovations to the existing building and added security.
The Riley County Law Enforcement Agency Board heard from Derrick Baker of Baker McMillan Architects. The firm was hired to address crowding in the jail and to provide more program space for inmates, including a library and chapel.
The plans also call for a shaded break area to help officers’ mental health.
“Speaking back to that aspect of wellbeing,” Baker said, “giving our officers a shaded break room or a break area outside so they can get away from the hustle and bustle and go out and relax for a little bit and then head back into work.”
Baker said he used 20-year crime statistics to inform the plans. He also mentioned the need to hire more officers.
Board member John Matta, also a Manhattan city commissioner, said it definitely is an eye opener for him and the county.
“I think this is a wake-up call for all the things we spend money on,” he said. “As some of you know the city has been having some financial issues and with this covering the next 20 years, we have take into consideration these requests.”
The police board didn’t vote on the matter, but it will discuss it further at a future meeting.
The city of Manhattan and Riley County jointly fund the Riley County Police Department.
