Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
| 13 Feb 2026 | |
| Media |
Olympia, WA – Kittitas County Jail Medical and Behavioral Care for Inmates Wins State Impact Award
New nursing staff and faster assessments improve safety, treatment, and reentry planning.
The Kittitas County Jail’s innovative approach to inmate intake means incarcerated people with chemical dependency issues or mental health concerns don’t fall through the cracks.
The unique screening approach has earned the jail a Washington State Association of Cities Projects of Impact award.
Closing Gaps
Jail staff noticed a need. They didn’t have enough time or expertise to adequately screen people who might have substance use or mental health issues. That caused delays in treatment and missed signs.
They applied for a county grant of the 1/10th of 1% Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Tax to bring in more expertise. Now, every person booked receives a professional assessment right away, cutting delays and improving outcomes.
In the first quarter of 2025, nurses screened 122 bookings—80% of all intakes. They performed 96 opioid withdrawal assessments, 59 substance use screenings, and started medication-assisted treatment for more than 80 people.
Impact and Innovation
The program is highlighting excellence in collaboration and raising the standard of care for incarcerated people—even in rural areas.
Jail leadership worked with Public Health, advisory committees, and the County Commissioners to secure funding through 2027. And the team is conducting frequent evaluations to make improvements to meet real needs in a rural community with limited resources.
Kittitas County Jail has built a model that improves care, lowers liability, and strengthens reentry. It shows small facilities can invest in medical and behavioral health services innovations—and reap rewards of safer, healthier outcomes for everyone.
Be sure to check out the photos from the Awards Lunch here!
The Washington State Association of Counties represents all 39 counties, advocating for local solutions and celebrating innovation that strengthens communities.
Media Contact
Mitch Netzer
Senior Manager, Business Development & Communications
mnetzer@wsac.org | 360.485.8549
Award-winning lane widening project boosts safety and cuts costs. More...
New Washington State Association of Counties Study Details Public Defense Caseload Changes and Cost Impacts. Counties Call for Urgent State Action to … More...
More than 500 people experience homelessness in Skagit County on any given night, with too few treatment beds and one of the lowest housing vacancy ra… More...
