Published February 28. 2023 11:48AM
by CHRISTINA SANTO Special to The Press
Northampton County Council met Feb. 2 to hear a report from County Executive Lamont McClure and vote on agenda items.
McClure discussed the progress of the county prison’s D-Tier renovations. The section was closed when McClure began his tenure as county executive because it was a “danger to life and limb.”
The renovations will total $3.91 million, compared to the original $3.56 million estimate, due to lead paint and asbestos removal.
Jim Castora, director of corrections, said, when opened, the D-Tier section will accommodate in-house workers and low-level security residents.
This section will relieve space in other tiers, including one that has been prepared to provide a space more conducive to residents in treatment for mental health issues.
McClure also stated Northampton County Prison is working toward reopening full visitation. Weekday visitation was open around Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s to monitor potential COVID-19 outbreaks.
Council approved a motion eliminating two full-time positions - one clerical technician and one clerical specialist - from the district attorney’s office, effective Jan. 20.
Council is expected to meet 6:30 p.m. March 2 in the county building, 669 Washington St., Easton.