City's OK moves detention center forward

SANDPOINT — The push to build a new $4.6 million juvenile detention center for Bonner County got a little help from city officials Wednesday evening.

After holding a public comment period for the project proposal, the City Council amended the development agreement for the 16-acre site next to the sheriff’s office, where the facility is projected to be built.

Debbie Stallcup, director of Bonner County Justice Services, illustrated the need for a new facility by highlighting the current structure’s deficiencies. A converted four-bedroom residence, the building presents numerous security and fire safety risks, included a very narrow hallway and the need to often pack four individuals into a single room. In addition, the house suffers from structural deficiencies like roof leaks and wall damage, is a fire hazard and is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

 Public officials from across the county showed up to express support for the project, including Sheriff Daryl Wheeler and Lake Pend Oreille School District Superintendent Dick Cvitanich.

“The juvenile issue is not just a county issue,” former Sandpoint councilman and county commissioner Steve Klatt said. “You will find that a surprising number of juveniles come from Sandpoint.”

The only element about the proposal that provoked significant discussion involved the placement of a road near the center. In accordance with the city’s grid plan, a road would usually be constructed south of the facility. However, such a road placement would pose security risks, including an increased probability of contraband within the facility. The council ultimately decided to amend the proposal, allowing the project directors to determine a road placement.

“I think this is a unique property, and we need to leave security to the professionals,” councilman Justin Schuck said.

A project several years in the making, the detention facility construction will be financed by $3 million from the county’s justice fund and $1.6 million borrowed from the solid waste reserve. With Ormand Builders selected as the contractor and city approval in the bag, construction is slated to begin this year.