NCJ Number
141506
Journal
Large Jail Network Bulletin Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: (January 1992) Pages: 6-7
Date Published
1992
Length
2 pages
Annotation
After carefully examining the issue of whether to contract for food services, the Pinellas County (Fla.) Sheriff's department has decided to operate its own services.
Abstract
The average daily jail population is between 1,850 and 1,900 inmates. During fiscal year 1990-91, the average cost per meal was $1.38. This cost included salaries, overhead, and supplies. Among arguments in favor of providing food services through the sheriff's department are that it helps prevent lawsuits and riots, allows the sheriff to retain control over budgets and operations, provides flexibility in serving hours, and allows the kitchen to handle emergencies ranging from drug busts to hurricanes without jeopardizing operations. Arguments against this approach include the lack of advancement opportunities for kitchen staff, the liability for food operations, the need for equipment maintenance, and the need for full-time staff. Arguments in favor of privatization include the fixed cost per meal, the reduction in the number of corrections officers for supervision, and the control by the contractor over food ordering and storage. Arguments against privatizing include the need for a food contract monitor, and the possibility of overbilling and increasing contract costs. Of course, the final basis for the decision must be whether privatization really saves taxpayer dollars.