CCNO board members learned the maximum population figures will have to be reduced to meet state guidelines.  Currently CCNO can house a maximum of 642 offenders although authorities encourage only 90 percent capacity to curtail overcrowding and operating expenses.  Prior to the inspection, state authorities recommended a maximum of 638 beds, four beds less than the current CCNO Board limit.  Mr. Dennis recommended that the figures be readjusted in October when the board reviews the proposed 2008 operating budget. He noted that there has been only one time that CCNO exceeded 642 beds and the high average has been 630 in the past 17 years.

Board members were also advised by CCNO Executive Director Jim Dennis that the Bureau of Adult Detention in Ohio (BAD) visited CCNO on May 3 and again on May 17.  The inspector ruled that offenders walking through the hallways can look into two male units and one female unit which violate the separation by sight standards. Charles Bailey, Chief of the Bureau of Adult Detention was present at the meeting to discuss this issue.

CCNO Board Chairman and Henry County Sheriff John Nye said that he feels state officials are splitting hairs.  While movement of the opposite sex by the housing unit is not allowed, allowing both males and females to attend programs in the same room is allowed.

Defiance County Sheriff Dave Westrick said this type of movement has gone on for the past 17 years and the BAD believe now it is an issue.

 Board members authorized Mr. Dennis to create a special committee to look into resolving the issue and make necessary recommendations.  Those recommendations could involve the installation of special glass that hazes over when offenders pass, construction of a special walkway or obtaining a variance from the state.