Spokane County commissioners took a decisive step on Oct. 26, 2026, moving the planned shutdown of the Geiger Corrections Center back to 2028. The decision follows a detailed budget review that weighed the costs of demolition, lost revenue and the need for extensive facility repairs.
Budget scenarios presented
Detention Chief Don Hooper presented three scenarios for the 2027 detention budget. The options were to keep Geiger operating, to close it on July 1, 2027, or to close it later with additional operational cuts. Hooper noted that the status‑quo budget for 2027 would be $76.17 million, while the target budget under a closure scenario would be $68.63 million.
Commissioners’ rationale
Commissioner Chris Jordan cautioned that the financial picture is more complex than a simple budget line. “When you factor in the revenue that would be lost and the cost of demolition, it really doesn’t save us any real money,” Jordan said, estimating demolition costs at least $5 million and suggesting the net savings would take three or four years to materialize.
County leaders emphasized the need to use 2027 to address critical issues before any shutdown. They want to ensure adequate housing capacity for released inmates, expand electronic home‑monitoring programs, and develop education options such as online classes. The commissioners also requested updates on downtown bed construction, which is expected to be completed by mid‑2027.
Infrastructure concerns
Commissioners highlighted that Geiger requires major repairs that could run into the tens of millions of dollars. At the same time, the facility generates revenue that helps offset its operating costs, adding another layer of complexity to the closure decision.
Next steps
The board reached a rough consensus to keep Geiger open through 2027 while a comprehensive plan for a 2028 closure is developed. The exact closure date—whether Jan. 1, 2028 or later in the year—will be determined after further study and regular updates from the detention department.
By keeping the facility operational for an additional year, Spokane County aims to balance fiscal responsibility with public‑safety considerations, ensuring that any transition is orderly and that the community’s needs are met.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
