1. JFA Institute Response to 2021 RES-320
Presented by Jim Austin, JFA Institute
Presentation regarding background of ongoing partnership with JFA, which began in
2019. The current contract is through 2021 RES-320 regarding the jail consolidation
project.
JFA Institute provides a review of the jail population from 2018 to 2021 (before and during
COVID). Crime rate is approximately the same currently, but there is some concern that
inflation will increase the crime rate. Relationship between arrests and bookings is
unclear in 2021, as arrests remained consistent but bookings rose. Future analysis
needed. Huber, Probation and Parole holds, and Federal contracts are areas to look
towards reducing jail population.
Review of the Dane County Jail incarceration rate by race and ethnicity against the
national rates. 1.4% of the Black population in Dane County is incarcerated at any given
time. If the Black incarceration rate dropped to the national average rate, the number of
beds needed would be 200 fewer. Incarceration of Black people is the driver of the jail
population. Review of October 2021 recommendations (see attachment).
Discussion ensues regarding Probation and Parole holds and whether people are held on
other, additional charges. Discussion about jail population review team, their authority in
assessing opportunities for release, and opportunities for collaboration. Discussion about
a three-year pilot to replace Huber with electronic monitoring in the community.
Discussion about housing youth and minors. Discussion of federal cost and funds of the
existing contract between Dane County and the federal legal system. Additional research
needed on determining whether MPD arrests refers to custodial or citations.
JFA PRESENTATION
2. Familiar Faces Initiative
Presented by Colleen Clark-Bernhardt
Dane County was accepted to the National Association of Counties (NACo) Familiar
Faces Initiative. This initiative supports people with mental health and substance use
conditions who are cycling through criminal legal and healthcare symptoms, such as jail,
law enforcement, and emergency rooms. Joining the national initiative will provide an
opportunity to increase support for people with mental health conditions.
FAMILIAR FACES NETWORK
E. Reports to Committee
None