Letter to Sherriff / County Off

Dear [Commissioner/Sheriff/County Official],

I am writing as a concerned previous resident and detainee of Williamson County to request greater transparency and public engagement regarding the county’s Intergovernmental Service Agreements (IGSAs) with the U.S. Marshals Service for housing federal detainees.

These agreements have significant implications for our local budget, jail capacity, and community oversight. Based on publicly available information, counties often receive a fixed per diem—sometimes exceeding $100 per day—for each federal detainee housed. While this may appear fiscally beneficial, I am concerned about the following:

• Lack of public input in the negotiation and renewal of these contracts
• Limited documentation on how rates are calculated and whether they reflect actual costs
• Oversight gaps in ensuring detainee welfare, facility standards, and long-term fiscal impact
• Potential strain on local jail resources and staff due to federal detainee volume

I respectfully request that the County provide:

1. A public summary of all current IGSAs, including reimbursement rates and contract terms
2. An explanation of how these agreements are negotiated and approved
3. A public hearing or forum to allow residents to ask questions and provide input
4. A review of how federal detainee housing affects local jail operations and budgets

Transparency and accountability are essential when federal contracts intersect with local governance. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
LeRoy Nellis
Austin, TX
LeRoy Nellis
512.450.1533