Sheriff's office and budget staff briefed the Spokane County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 17 about detention funding choices, program costs and short‑term population changes after a recent suspension of book‑and‑release policies.

Staff presented three options ranging from status quo to a reduced‑program model that would close a facility building, cut programs and eliminate vacant positions. They warned that losing city or regional partners or federal grant dollars would force further staffing reductions. Staff reported that suspending book‑and‑release in mid‑October coincided with a short‑term ADP (average daily population) increase of roughly 88 beds over several weeks, with much of the increase tied to city misdemeanor bookings.

Analysis showed Electronic Home Monitoring (EHM) and education programs are net costs to the county: EHM had a reported net shortfall of approximately $196,000 and education programs a net shortfall of about $174,000 after accounting for advisory‑agency allocations. Budget staff said the county could realize overtime savings and other efficiencies if some facility changes are implemented, but warned those choices would also reduce program offerings and staff capacity.

Sheriff’s staff noted that other jurisdictions’ participation in revised interlocal agreements (ILAs) and per‑capita rate adjustments would affect the county’s ability to maintain staffing levels; a projected ILA increase could yield approximately $93,000 but some partners (notably Spokane Valley) had not yet committed.

Next steps: staff will finalize recommended budget options and present possible ordinance/resolution language for the commissioners’ review; commissioners asked staff to return with concrete budget amendments if partners do not commit.