Sheriff seeks inmate transport fee, reports surge in jail population; pursues opioid‑treatment grant

Sheriff Andy Howe informed the Board that Clay County’s jail population has increased — in part because the county is holding inmates for the Department of Corrections — and said sustained population growth is prompting review of boarding rates and cost recovery. At the June 23 meeting Howe recommended a $25/hour transportation fee per officer, mileage at the state rate and a $5 minimum, which the Board approved.

Howe also outlined a planned application for a Comprehensive Opioid and Stimulant Substance Use Program grant (potentially up to $1 million over three years) to fund a staff position that would coordinate treatment linkages, expand telehealth and add prescription‑drop boxes. "Most of the issues we have these days are addiction‑based," Howe said; the Board expressed support for pursuing the grant while noting the position would be contingent on award.