The proposed construction of a new jail facility sparked debate among commissioners, with discussions centering on the financial implications and staffing needs for the project. A commissioner recalled a previous proposal estimated at $48 million, compared to another facility priced at $37 million, raising questions about the necessity of 158 staff members to operate the new facility. Concerns were expressed about the logic and efficiency of the design, prompting a deeper examination of the county’s correctional system’s current strain. The transition plan to transfer inmates from the Hudson facility to Camden County within a three-month period was discussed, though discrepancies in cost estimates were acknowledged.

The consulting firm CGL, involved in the project, was noted to have provided a figure of $424 million based on various inputs, which led to confusion and calls for clarity. Commissioners emphasized the importance of collaboration with neighboring counties to potentially mitigate costs, with expanded participation from other regions seen as a viable strategy. The need for transparency was underscored, particularly concerning the cancellation of previous plans for a jail on Buckham Road in 2020, and how this decision interrelated with the 2023 report from CGL.

In addition to jail facility discussions, the meeting addressed traffic safety concerns raised by Newport resident Nora Eller. Eller highlighted the danger posed by speeding vehicles on Baptist Road, Methodist Road, Landing Road, and Fortiscu Road, where speeds often reached 50 mph in 25 mph zones. She recounted a recent incident where her cat was killed due to speeding and urged the board to consider installing speed bumps or traffic lights at Fortiscu and Landing Roads. The commissioners acknowledged the issue, explaining the limitations of their authority, as changes to speed limits and infrastructure typically require state approval. Suggestions for increased patrols by the sheriff’s department and collaboration with state police were discussed as potential measures to enhance enforcement.

The board also engaged in discussions regarding Resolution 2025-521, which involved awarding a contract for new scheduling and routing software for the county’s area transit system. The selected software, Eco Lane, was praised for its capabilities in enhancing the management of paratransit services and integrating future microtransit options. The need for better transit routes and improved transportation systems within the county was emphasized, with commissioners expressing optimism about the software’s implementation and its potential to support future expansion plans.

Additional resolutions were addressed during the meeting, including the approval of accounts payable automation and proprietary software upgrades for the Clerk’s Office. A notable resolution, 2025-527, authorized an application for grant funding aimed at reducing violence. Commissioners also discussed a shared service agreement for light tower equipment and the repair of a dishwashing unit at the Department of Corrections, highlighting ongoing maintenance and operational concerns.

Public comments further illuminated community concerns, with Sandy Aso from Upper Deerfield Township criticizing the broadcasting of meetings due to interruptions by commercials. Aso requested that the board address sound quality issues and the interruptions of meeting proceedings by commercial content. Commissioners pledged to investigate the issue. Nancy Richqu from Jereious raised questions about the cost estimates for the proposed jail facility, describing them as “outrageously high” and seeking more transparency regarding financial decisions, particularly the remaining funds from a previous grant or bond. The Director of Corrections, Chuck Albino, responded by explaining the necessity of addressing operational challenges and inefficiencies within the current correctional facility, reiterating that decisions regarding construction ultimately lie with the governing body.

The meeting concluded with a report on the county’s efforts to engage local vendors in county projects, with a presentation scheduled to guide tradespeople through the bid and RFP processes. Additionally, the board announced final approval from the New Jersey Department of Transportation to replace a structure in Richland Township, following years of environmental permitting processes involving multiple agencies.