NCJ Number
115503
Date Published
1988
Length
80 pages
Annotation
This study evaluated the economic and fiscal impacts of a proposed State prison facility near Wasco in Kern County, Calif.
Abstract
Prison employment will range from 881 to 1,258. Half will be transferees and half new hirees, with a total annual payroll of about $25,108,500. In addition to creating new jobs for local residents, the facility will result in induced jobs in the retail and wholesale trade and in food services. Prison visitation and prison-related services will result in additional economic growth. Overall economic growth should result in annual fiscal surpluses for the County and the cities of Wasco, Shafter, and Bakersfield. In addition, the prison will generate annual reimbursable costs incurred by the County for prison-related services ranging from $141,000 to $266,900. While the prison will result in school enrollment increase, they will be dispersed among the affected communities; and predicted increases in enrollment can be accommodated by construction already planned. Demand for housing is expected to increase. The current housing supply in Wasco and Shafter is insufficient to meet the predicted demand for owner-occupied or good quality rental units. However, these cities have ample space and infrastructure to respond promptly with new construction. Bakersfield and adjacent unincorporated areas are currently 'overbuilt' and should have no difficulty in meeting demand. Supplemental information is appended. 16 tables and 6 references.