County to Replace Natural Gas Distribution System; Move Inmates and Employees

September 15, 2010

Inmates and Tulare County Sheriff's Department employees housed at the Tulare County Correctional Center at Sequoia Field will be moved to a nearby facility in conjunction with a capital project to replace an aging natural gas distribution system, the Tulare County Board of Supervisors announced today.

Tulare County Board of Supervisors Chairman Steve Worthley said the facility was constructed in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s and the county has maintained the system and made needed repairs over the years.

"In light of the recent events in San Bruno, Tulare County has decided to take a more proactive approach by completely replacing the gas lines to ensure the safety of the inmates and county staff,” Chairman Worthley said.
 
According to the County Administrative Office, all natural gas lines will be shut off to the facilities until the project can be completed. The new distribution system will serve the site well into the future. The project is expected to take approximately six months to complete.

During the next few days, approximately 240 inmates currently housed at the site will be moved to the nearby Pre-Trail Facility.  Sheriff’s Alternative Work Program and Day Reporting Center functions will also be relocated to the Pre-Trial Facility.  Anyone needing specific information regarding inmate visiting or programs may call the Pre-Trial Facility 559/735-1750.

According to the Sheriff’s Department, all inmates should be moved to alternate facilities by Sunday. In addition to the detention functions, Sheriff’s staff assigned to the site, which includes detective and administrative personnel, will be relocated to alternate facilities.