Restrictions on visitation and the work release program at the Clarion County Jail were lifted after the Jail Board approved both measures by a 4-2 vote.
Clarion County Commissioners Ted Tharan and Ed Heasley opposed both motions.
Tharan said at a time when people cannot visit loved ones in nursing homes and hospitals due to the coronavirus pandemic that it lacked common sense to allow visitation at the jail.
Heasley said he was looking out for the taxpayers of Clarion County with his stance.
“If someone catches the virus and then shares it, who would pay for it? The taxpayers of Clarion County would pay the cost,” he said.
Warden Jeff Hornberger said some inmates have not seen their family or friends since visitation was halted due to restrictions imposed as a result of the pandemic, and that it is important for inmates to stay in touch.
Hornberger pointed out visitation booths have glass that separates inmates from visitors. He said the number of people allowed into the lobby will be reduced and a corrections officer will be stationed in the lobby.
The warden said each inmate is allowed a one-half hour visit each week and the jail staff will determine the visitation schedule.
Hornberger said some neighboring counties have not altered visitation or the work-release program.
Hornberger reported two companies had approached him about video visitation software. A demonstration could be conducted at the next Jail Board meeting.
The now reopened work-release program allows inmates to continue to work at their approved employment during incarceration. Inmates enrolled in the program must have permission from the court.
Hornberger said because of the low jail population, he could isolate inmates enrolled in the program upon return from work. The isolation would be voluntary. Currently, there are two inmates in the program.
The next Jail Board meeting will be the first face-to-face meeting since the coronavirus-imposed restrictions. The meeting will be held at the Clarion County administration building at 9 a.m. on July 9.