The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office and the New Orleans City Council held a meeting Tuesday to address the ongoing water problems at the jail.
According to Sheriff Susan Hutson, the jail has significant infrastructure problems, and the long-term fix could cost $900,000. A short-term solution for the water leak would cost $300,000.
According to Ernie Anderson with Powerhouse Construction, the jail’s recent leak was caused by a noncompressed fitting. That then led to 16 active leaks in the jail that caused significant damage.
The jail is only 10 years old, but its condition is not holding up to the projected 30-year lifespan design, according to Anderson.
The sheriff’s office has a fund balance of $8.4 million, with $5 million available for emergency spending.
Hutson told the City Council that she is cooperating with a state legislative audit team to review funding streams.
The recent leak is not the only problem with the jail. Other problems, such as electrical issues and an aging system due to strains from the jail being over capacity, have also resulted in deteriorating conditions, according to Hutson.
The City Council and Hutson agreed to work together to address the financial and infrastructure challenges.
READ MORE:Orleans Parish sheriff says water problems at jail could cost up to $900,000
