Reports on jail, internet presented

RITZVILLE – Public Works Director Todd O’Brien provided updates on the progress of jail repairs and countywide broadband during the Jan. 9 Adams County Commission meeting.

O’Brien said the county is waiting for cost estimates from a subcontractor that will apply coatings to jail floors and walls.

In addition, his staff is considering the feasibility of moving the jail laundry room to the courthouse basement, he said. The change may require a sump pump with a reservoir to direct water from the washing machine to a sewer line.

The county also wants to identify telephone poles to be used for above-ground broadband infrastructure, he said. In response to a request from Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad, the county is working to identify poles used by Avista, Big Bend and other providers.

“We want to know who owns each pole so we can craft one agreement for the entire project,” O’Brien said.