As Sheriff, I am disappointed and concerned about the failure of the bond issue for building a new facility. We are currently formulating plans to operate without a jail in the event the State does follow through on the promise to close our current facility.

It will be up to the Quorum Court to determine the future needs of Marion County; I only hope that our projections showing the negative impact of operating without a jail are somewhat off.

For the remainder of my term, I am committed to leaving this department in the best shape possible for my ultimate successor. Both Roger and I have always held the people of Marion County in the highest regard and have seriously undertaken our responsibility of serving and protecting the citizens of the county.

Currently our jail and three of the surrounding county’s jails are full. This forces limited options in an overflow situation. This is another expense the County will have to absorb, putting pressure on County finances.

Obviously, it is important to understand what could have been done differently to change the 96 minds needed to pass the bond last night. I sincerely hope the Quorum Court tries to learn from this vote as they formulate the future issues that will be placed before the voters.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office will continue to serve and protect the citizens of this county.

Respectfully,

Joan Vickers

Sheriff