Sheriff Forte’s list of problems at the Jackson County Detention Center | Toriano Porter
This week, I spoke with Jackson County Sheriff Darryl Forte about issues with the new $300 million County Detention Center — reported problems included flooding, overflowing toilets, a damaged heating and cooling system, a water main break and other issues that continued to be monitored, Forte told me Tuesday. Below is a summary Forte sent to me of some of the concerns all Jackson County residents should be aware of and that the sheriff’s office must continue to address.
Pre-occupancy flood damage
Flooding that occurred before occupancy caused lasting damage to portions of the climate control system, Forte wrote. This includes the replacement coil that remains on backorder and continues to affect cooling in the main entrance and visitation areas, he wrote.
Sewage flooding in living unit
The Facilities Management Division determined that the flooding was caused by gravel left in the drain lines during construction, according to Forte. U.S. Engineering was contacted and performed a power flush of the affected lines to remove the obstruction and restore proper drainage, he wrote.
Air conditioning issues
Multiple rooftop air conditioning units required service this week, Forte said. U.S. Engineering completed repairs related to cooling tower issues that developed over the weekend, he said. However, portions of the building's climate control system remain affected by flood damage that occurred prior to occupancy. “A replacement coil remains on backorder. As a result, the main entrance and visitation areas continue to experience elevated temperatures,” Forte wrote.
Water main break
A water main break outside the facility was repaired by the Kansas City Water Department, according to Forte. During the incident, the facility experienced fluctuating water pressure, which caused several toilets to overflow due to inconsistent pressure levels, Forte wrote.
Kitchen water issues
“The kitchen has experienced recurring water issues originating from both the dishwasher drain and the spray hose,” Forte wrote. “These problems have resulted in water flowing into multiple adjoining hallways. The accumulation of water creates pooling on the floors, presenting significant safety concerns for both staff and inmates. Slick floor conditions increase the risk of slips, falls, and other injuries and require continuous monitoring and cleanup to maintain safe movement throughout the affected areas.” According to Forte, further corrective action is needed to prevent ongoing leaks and eliminate associated hazards. The facility is currently awaiting resolution by the Facilities Management Division, he wrote.
Water intrusion from skylight and courtyard doors
During periods of rainfall, the facility experiences water intrusion from the skylight in the intake area and from the courtyard doors. These leaks affect surrounding floor surfaces and interfere with normal operations in those areas. “The Facilities Management Division (FMD) has been notified, and repairs are pending through the warranty process,” Forte wrote. “Continued monitoring is required during rainfall to maintain safe conditions until permanent corrective measures are completed.”
Water intrusion at rear of building
There is ongoing water intrusion at the rear of the building, with water entering through the chases during rainfall events. This issue has been observed repeatedly. However, the exact cause and long-term solution remain unknown, Forte said. “The Facilities Management Division (FMD) and JE Dunn were notified of the issue during the transition period. Further assessment and corrective action are expected through the warranty process, but no confirmed resolution or timeline has been provided,” he wrote.
Security electronics and camera view updates
The detention center is awaiting updates regarding requested camera view adjustments and security electronics modifications submitted through JE Dunn and Cornerstone, according to Forte. “These items remain unresolved, and no confirmed completion timeline has been provided,” he wrote.
Preventative maintenance
The new detention center is covered under a two-year warranty beginning from the substantial completion date in December 2025, Forte wrote.
