The proposed Center which would support Caroline, Kent and Queen Anne’s County, is planned to be located at the former Eastern Pre-Release Unit site at 700 Flat Iron Square Road near Church Hill.
The project includes a significant investment for renovations and expansions, with a proposed budget allocation of $12.5 million for FY2024. Additional funding projections include $20.6 million in 2025 and $1.2 million in 2026, focusing on updated medical facilities, specialized housing, and enhanced inmate services.
The letters from Kent and Caroline indicate their interest in collaborating on the project, which aims to address the growing need for modern and efficient detention facilities in the region.
In an interview with Elizabeth Malasky, Queen Anne’s director of Information and Communications Technology, she noted all three counties are experiencing similar challenges in upgrading their respective detention centers; and logistical issues with upgrading facilities while they are being occupied. A new regional facility will provide an opportunity for a collective approach to address the regional detention needs, providing potential cost-sharing and resource optimization, Malasky said.
Community concerns questioned the impact of a detention center on local neighborhoods, including issues related to safety, property values, and infrastructure strain — concerns that are being considered by the QA commissioners as they weigh the pros and cons moving forward.
In October of 2023, the Queen Anne’s County Department of Public Works presented findings from a feasibility study, addressing site selection, environmental impact assessments, and preliminary design considerations.
During that meeting, public opposition was evident, with several community members voicing their concerns. Issues such as potential traffic congestion and environmental degradation were highlighted.
Despite public opposition, administrative officials reiterated their support for the project, emphasizing its necessity for regional safety and efficiency in handling detainees.
The budget work sessions in April 2024 provided a deeper look into the financial aspects of the proposed detention center. Discussions from the sessions, particularly on April 2 and April 11, focused on the capital budget allocations and projected expenditures.
The proposed budget outlined significant capital investments required for the project, including construction costs, facility maintenance, and operational expenses. County officials discussed various funding sources, including state and federal grants, bonds, and inter-county financial agreements. The importance of securing state approval and funding was emphasized. Concerns about the long-term financial impact on the county’s budget were raised. And commissioners questioned whether the projected economic benefits would outweigh the costs, particularly in the initial years of operation.
Supporters argue that the new facility would replace outdated and overcrowded detention centers, improving overall conditions and inmate management. The project is also expected to create numerous construction and operational jobs, boosting the local economy. The collaboration with Kent and Caroline Counties is seen as a positive step towards regional cooperation and resource sharing.
On the other side of the aisle, there are environmental, community impact and ongoing financial burden. Opponents are worried about the environmental impact of the construction and operation of the detention center, particularly regarding local wildlife and ecosystems. There are also significant concerns about the potential negative impact on property values, local infrastructure, and community safety. Lastly, critics highlight the financial burden on taxpayers and question the long-term viability of the project, especially if anticipated funding does not materialize.
The next significant step involves securing approval from the State Board of Public Works. County officials are preparing to present the project to the State Board of Public Works for approval, which is essential for moving forward with property acquisition and securing state funding.
Continued community engagement and public hearings are expected to address ongoing concerns and incorporate public feedback into the planning process. If approved, detailed planning and design phases will commence, including further environmental impact studies and finalizing construction plans.
The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners proposed a $34M budget over three years for FY2024, highlighting $12.5M for Detention Center renovation. The Detention Center funding increases to $20.6M in 2025, then reduces to $1.2M in 2026, focusing on updated medical facilities, specialized housing, and inmate services. The current facility offers addiction classes, GED programs, health care, library services, meals, recreational opportunities, and religious services. A $2.3M update in 2009 added 11 modular units for better accommodations.
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