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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing May 6-12, 2018 as Correctional Officers and Correctional Employees Appreciation Week in Solano County (Supervisor Thomson)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No __X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No __X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Sheriff recommends the Board of Supervisors adopt and present a resolution recognizing May 6-12, 2018 as Correctional Officers and Correctional Employees Appreciation Week in Solano County.
SUMMARY:
In recognition of the contributions of correctional officers to our Nation, Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution, has designated the week of May 6-12, 2018, as National Correctional Officers Week. This week has been set aside to honor the many correctional officers as well as treatment and support staff with the ultimate task of protecting the public by separating offenders from the community and rehabilitating offenders before reintegration into the community. The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the need to raise public awareness about the services and functions of correctional officers and therefore wishes to participate in the upcoming National Correctional Officers Week.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no additional financial impact on the County as a result of recognizing May 6-12, 2018 as Correctional Officers and Correctional Employees Appreciation Week. There is minimal cost of staff time in preparing this item, which is covered by the Departmental budget.
DISCUSSION:
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5187, creating National Correctional Officer’s Week. Each year, the first full week of May is recognized as National Correctional Officers and Correctional Employees Week, commemorating the contributions of correctional officers and personnel who work in jails, prisons, and community corrections across the country. Proclamation 5187 stated:
Historically, correctional officers have been viewed as ‘guards’, occupying isolated and misunderstood positions in prisons and jails. In recent years, the duties of these officers have become increasingly complex and demanding. They are often called upon to fill, simultaneously, custodial, supervisory and counseling roles. The professionalism, dedication and courage exhibited by these officers throughout the performance of these demanding and often conflicting roles deserve our utmost respect. Correctional officers often do not receive the recognition from the public they deserve. It is appropriate that we honor the many contributions and accomplishments of these men and women who are a vital component of the field of corrections and rehabilitation.
Perhaps no one is more underappreciated than the correctional officer. For decades, correctional officers have often been portrayed negatively in the media and mischaracterized in movies and television. The value that corrections staff have on providing a public service is largely unknown to the public they serve. A correctional officer’s job is difficult and stressful and often requires working double shifts, missing out on family events and being there for their children. Correctional officers and other treatment and support staff put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public, staff, and inmates while at the same time helping offenders to change their behavior to become better human beings. Their reward comes with maintaining order and offering protection, while encouraging inmates to develop skills and attitudes that permit them to lead productive lives after their release.
Working in correctional facilities is demanding, as personnel must maintain a constant state of heightened vigilance and adhere to strict security protocols. Corrections staff must also perform their duties within harsh physical environments and with the threat of repeated exposure to violent events. Currently, Solano County employs 255 Correctional Officers, 31 Custody Sergeants, 3 Custody Lieutenants, and 15 treatment and support staff working in three jail facilities. These professionals are responsible for the custodial care of more than 750 inmates daily.
National Correctional Officers and Correctional Employees Week is an ideal time to recognize and celebrate correctional professionals for their devotion, bravery, and ongoing commitment.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt the resolution; however, this alternative is not recommended as this week is an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of the corrections staff.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION