Anonymous donor gives county $1 million toward new jail

An anonymous donor has given $1 million to Flathead County to help pay for a new county jail.

County Administrator Mike Pence said the county received the surprise donation last Wednesday, along with information that the donor may provide additional money in the future.

“We have not established a fundraising effort, but sincerely appreciate this gift and any others, small or large, to fund the needed jail facility project,” Pence said. “We honor individual privacy when requested.”

Commissioner Phil Mitchell said he was flabbergasted when he heard about the generous donation.

“I’m in awe; I’m grateful,” Mitchell said. “Someone’s heart is in the right place because this is a need.”

Commissioner Gary Krueger said the donation is greatly appreciated as the commissioners move forward with plans for a new jail.

“Building a jail has been on our plate for a number of years, and it’s good when members of the community can recognize the needs the county has, and can step up and make a contribution.”

While the $1 million gift is one of the largest single donations ever given to the county, Krueger noted that other county programs such as the animal shelter have benefited from local giving.

“We’re always excited to see any of these donations,” Krueger said. “Quite honestly a donation to the jail is greatly needed and will be a great benefit to the public. It helps all the citizens, and law enforcement.”

Flathead County has saved about $6 million that is set aside for a project in the near future, Pence said.

“We will add to that savings program as we’re able to reduce the amount needed for a voted bond issue,” Pence added.

The commissioners are in the throes of determining a game plan for a new jail facility.

Overcrowding at the current adult detention center has become a chronic, and at times, critical problem. As a temporary fix the county spent $1.3 million to add 36 beds to the detention center by renovating space on the second floor of the Justice Center when the County Attorney office complex was relocated.

Last fall the county won a $40,000 state planning grant to evaluate jail expansion options. The grant money will pay for preparation of a preliminary architectural report that will look at alternatives for expanding the jail, including an expansion of the existing jail, buying property and building a new jail or converting an existing facility.

Krueger said he wants a tight focus on the study so it’s a realistic picture of what the county can afford, rather than an expansive “wish list.”

“I personally want something that can fit into the county budget, so we can go to voters with an operational levy or bond issue,” Krueger said. “I don’t want a study done on what can you give me that meets everyone’s wish lists … let’s have a realistic study.”