Kent County, Mich., Recycling Center Employs Inmates Through Work Release Program

The Kent County, Mich., Department of Public Works and the sheriff have entered a new partnership that will place inmates from the Kent County jail in minimum-wage jobs at the county’s recycling facility.

A group of about 15 inmates will be transported from the prison in the morning to work 10-hour shifts at the facility before returning to the jail at night. The workers will be paid minimum wage, according to Public Works Director Dar Baas.

A pilot program was created in November 2017, and results were positive enough to extend the program on a permanent basis.

MLive has more information:

Though the recycling center staffs supervisors who manage operations on the technical side, a need was identified for experienced corrections officers there as well -- to transport and supervise inmates and to diffuse any situations that might arise.

"Having that blended skill set, I think, is what has made it work well," Baas said.

He said he was glad at the opportunity to cooperate with the county sheriff's office and, at the same time, provide a positive work opportunity to the inmates.

"They want to be there, they're earning a wage and it has helped improve our quality," Baas said. "That's a win for everyone. It's a great program and we're proud to offer it."

Read the full story here.