Northwest Arkansas Community Corrections Center Faces Uncertain Future
Washington County, Arkansas, continues to debate the future of the Northwest Arkansas Community Corrections Center, which is currently under lease to the Arkansas Community Corrections (ACC) as a women’s correctional treatment facility. The county terminated its lease with the state in March, citing the state’s alleged lack of effort to address jail overcrowding issues in Washington County.
Use of the facility, which operated as the Washington County Jail in the past, has been a contentious issue. Washington County Judge Patrick Deakins has stated that the county needs the facility for its own purposes and that the state must either negotiate a new lease or vacate the premises. Deakins highlighted the need for more space, as the current detention center is overcrowded, housing over 100 inmates on the floor and holding around 100 state prisoners waiting for a state prison bed.
Opposition to the closure remains strong, particularly among former employees and volunteers. Public meetings have drawn support for the center, which offers unique treatment programs for women, such as addiction treatment, parenting classes, and community mentorship. The state, with decisions pending, has until December to renegotiate the lease.
Reports indicate that existing staff at the facility would be transferred to West Memphis if the center closes, and the county would regain control of the facility. Protests against this move emphasize the importance of maintaining treatment resources within the county.
- Supporters emphasize the successful and transformative nature of the center for both residents and staff, pointing to its unique programs and rehabilitative environment.
- Closing the center would result in an uncertain and potentially negative impact on the local community.
As negotiations continue between the county and the state, the fate of the center remains uncertain, leaving both its residents and the broader community in limbo.
