Sheriff reports unusually low jail census, staffing shortages and program changes; commissioners approve hires and appointments

Sheriff Mary told Sagadahoc County commissioners the jail census is at an unusually low level — nine inmates on the day of the meeting — while staffing shortages continue to push overtime costs upward. She said two deputies are currently in the academy and that one deputy deployed overseas had an extended return, increasing staffing strain. The sheriff also reported the temporary resignation of a contracted mental‑health liaison and that a short‑term fill will cover two days a week until a permanent replacement is hired.

"We’re still in a situation where we're understaffed currently," Sheriff Mary said, and noted traffic‑enforcement changes tied to a Bureau of Highway Safety grant that have increased traffic stops for distracted driving enforcement.

During the meeting the board approved several personnel and board appointments. Commissioners unanimously approved the appointment of Jason Shaw to the Board of Assessment Review and later approved appointing Jason Warlick to the 2 Bridges Regional Jail Board of Directors. The board also authorized hiring two 9‑1‑1 dispatchers with announced anticipated start dates; staff described a training period that includes roughly a month of regional training followed by several months of in‑house field training.

Commissioners and the sheriff discussed how the county has managed housing for inmates, operating costs relative to low census, and diversion programs including electronic monitoring. The board also noted a separate finance update about 2 Bridges and recent legal/contract actions with neighboring counties.