A Message from Judge Executive Ralph A. Drees

Dear Friends,

Three weeks ago, I announced a decision to recommend the site located just north of the city of Independence for a jail site. This was a difficult decision, but critically important.

Today, I have directed the release on this website of the information that led me through the decision making process.

Throughout my life, I have been a take-charge, get-the-job-done businessman. I'm not a smooth talking politician. I regret that my comments have come off as callous or uncaring, because nothing could be further from the truth. I care deeply about this county and every citizen who lives here.

My decisions and recommendations to the Commissioners were made after gathering information, evaluating operations in other jurisdictions, and consulting professionals who site and design correction facilities. I personally visited jails in Manatee County and Hillsborough County in Florida; Jefferson County, Fayette County and Boone County in Kentucky; and Butler County in Ohio. I reviewed previous studies and site data, and with that as my foundation of information I set out to find the right site. 

People may question my political correctness, but those who question my sincerity in serving the people of this county are gravely mistaken.

I hear the concerns of the people in Independence. I know that there are fears, and I'm sure that there are misunderstandings, but I ask that you trust my judgment as a fellow citizen, a father, husband, grandfather, and over 50 years of leadership making the American Dream a reality here and in six states across this nation.