In studying the inadequacies of the current Ellis County Jail and criminal justice data, a criminal justice planning firm has projected the average daily need for bed space in the jail.

As the county prepares for renovations, Aaron Baggarly with Carter Global Lee says the projected daily population in 2025 is 58, but the bed space in greater. Baggarly says to cover highs and lows, as well as, space for inmates who have been sentenced, the jail needs around 91 beds.

Baggarly says the two options are renovating the existing jail and adding an annex for around $10 million or building a new jail for approximately $12 million. County Commissioner Barbara Wasinger says due to costs the county is looking at some form of renovation.