PASCO, Wash. – The Franklin County Board of Commissioners met on Wednesday to reaffirm their decision to sever a collaborative contract with Benton County regarding juvenile detention services.
In late August, Benton County proposed a new human services agreement, citing an increase in legal claims against their services. They indicated a desire to share liability between the counties.
Benton County warned that if Franklin County did not agree and renew the contract by September 30, the services might be separated. On September 19, Franklin County decided not to renew the contract.
During Wednesday’s meeting, the commissioners maintained their stance, tabling further discussion until more solid plans for a Franklin County juvenile detention alternative are devised.
The severance of the agreement will not be completed until the Benton Franklin Superior Court approves the disentanglement, which remains pending.
Starting January 1, 2026, Franklin County plans to transport juvenile detainees two hours outside of the Tri-Cities to Martin Hall.
