The Marlboro County Council unanimously approved a request to fund an engineering assessment of the county detention center after hearing from the sheriff’s office about repeated flooding, ventilation failures, mildew and mold.

Officer Bragg told the council that the jail—built without meeting a two‑foot elevation in an area that drains toward the facility—has flooded repeatedly since opening in 1996. The council considered a Mosley Designs proposal for a full review of structural, mechanical and HVAC systems plus a property survey and drainage recommendations. Cost estimates given in the meeting ranged from about $61,258 to $69,000.

Council members asked whether the proposal is strictly a diagnostic study (it is) and whether it will include recommendations with cost estimates. Staff confirmed Mosley Designs will provide a needs assessment and, if directed, can prepare follow‑on work. The council clarified funding will come from the contingency fund.

A motion to approve up to $69,000 for the engineering assessment, funded from contingency, passed unanimously. Staff said any unused portion would return to contingency.