By Scott Harvey
Hopkins County, Rains County – Hopkins County Commissioners Monday are to consider a contract to house inmates in Rains County, another possible solution to jail overcrowding.
Commissioners already have agreements with both Franklin and Titus Counties that allows the housing of inmates in those facilities when the count exceeds 95.
The issue has been in question dating back to September, 2008, when the Texas Commission on Jail Standards placed the county under remedial order. They've been advised to develop a long-range plan for their facility by August.
Commissioners have since hired an attorney to assist in the process, and also discussed a regional or private jail facility, plus the option of using electronic monitoring bracelet as an alternative to housing inmates.
Monday's regular meeting begins at 10:00 a.m. in the Hopkins County Courthouse in Sulphur Springs.