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Adopt a resolution recognizing May 3-9, 2020 as Correctional Officers and Correctional Employees Appreciation Week in Solano County
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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 a resolution recognizing May 3-9, 2020 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 Joint Resolution, has designated the week of May 3-9, 2020, as National Correctional Officers Week. This week has been set aside to honor correctional officers, as well as correctional facility treatment and support staff. Together, these men and women are tasked with the responsibility of staffing and operating correctional facilities that help protect 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:
The cost associated with preparing this agenda item is included in the department’s FY2019/20 Adopted Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2019/20 Adopted Budget. There is no additional financial impact on the County as a result of recognizing May 3-9, 2020 as Correctional Officers and Employees Appreciation Week.
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 Employees Week, commemorating the contributions of correctional officers and all the correction facility 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.
The value and role that corrections staff have providing a public service is largely unknown. A correctional officer’s job requires dedication. 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. Currently, Solano County employs 247 Correctional Officers, 29 Custody Sergeants, 4 Custody Lieutenants and 15 treatment and support staff working in three jail facilities and the Rourk Vocational Training Center. Until recent events, these professionals have been responsible for the custodial care of more than 700 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. This year, due to COVID 19 and our efforts to comply with the social distancing for the safety and protection of our staff, we will be postponing celebratory activities to a future date.
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