The Kent County Corrections and Detention Millage would have expanded funding for daily operations, staffing, programming and infrastructure for the main county jail and juvenile detention center with central booking used by more than 30 police agencies across Kent County.
It would also have funded improvements to medical and mental health services now housed in a cell block of the jail’s original wing built in 1972.
Officials say it no longer meets modern standards of care and is overwhelmed by increasing demand for mental health and drug treatment.
With the defeat of the proposed millage that would have increased and extended funding through 2045, the existing millage continues through the 2029 levy.
Responding to the voters’ decision, Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Sgt. Scott Dietrich noted, “We understand how expensive everyday life has become for families across Kent County. We need to listen carefully to our community and better understand voters’ concerns as we consider next steps.”
Jail operations will not change immediately, although county officials have said funds needed for the aging facility - a multi-million dollar shortfall - will have to be diverted from Kent County’s General Fund, potentially impacting other departments and services.
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