Leaving options open in regards to the existing facility, Lyon County commissioners on Thursday unanimously agreed to pursue the building of a complete new jail detention complex.  The facility will be constructed on vacant property to the north of the current complex.

The design of the new facility will include 160 inmate beds (with future expansion options) and a Justice Court.  Direction was also given to explore the feasibility/costs of including multiple District Court rooms and whether to demolish or renovate the jail portion of the current building.

Under this plan the lobby area would be maintained and the Yerington Police offices would remain in the current facility.  Moving of other county entities into this building will also be considered, including:

• Child Support Services
• Storage
• Juvenile Probation administration, detention and visitation

The decision regarding the possible demolition of the existing jail facility will be made following an assessment by the project architect.  Commissioners expressed hesitation at demolishing this portion if it could possibly be renovated for some future use; however, County Engineer Dick Faber said there are considerable problems that would have to be addressed and it could become quite costly.

The construction costs for the project are estimated at $13.75 million, including the renovation of the existing administrative portion of the building; however, Comptroller Josh Foli cautioned the total project (including land acquisition, consultants, architect, et al) will cost approximately $16 million.  Including additional District Court rooms and the decision regarding the current jail facility could also affect total costs.

The motion by Commissioner Chuck Roberts to approve what was termed as “Option 3”:

Move to approve Option 3 with two provisions:

• It not be mandatory to demolish the jail (cell) portion, leaving that option to the discretion of the architect;
• Expand the scope of the project to include master planning and cost analysis to include District Court rooms.

This was approved 5-0.

In other jail project related information, Project Manager Donette Barreto said the Request for Qualifications for a Project Construction Manager at Risk is now posted for a three week period of advertizing.  This may be viewed on the County website.