The joint motion by Supervisors Gloria Molina and Michael D. Antonovich, taking the decade-long debate on whether or not to replace the aging Men’s Central Jail to the next step, was approved. The Board of Supervisors also voted to consider a comprehensive diversion plan.
“By moving forward with a new state-of-the-art detention facility, today’s action advances our efforts to protect public safety and avoids a class action lawsuit or a federal take-over such as the one confronted by the state,” said Supervisor Antonovich. “The new facility will be designed to ensure inmate and staff safety as well as provide access to vital health, mental health and substance abuse treatment services which will satisfy our agreement with the Department of Justice.”
Both motions called for reports due in 60 days.