Media Release
FROM: Sheriff Joe Leko
DATE: March 10, 2025
RE: Dakota County Opens Industry Leading Jail Integrative Health Unit
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Today, Dakota County hosted a ribbon cutting event to open its jail's new, 26-bed Integrative Health Unit (IHU). The IHU was added onto the existing 263 capacity jail in Hastings and provides dedicated space to treat and care for Dakota County jail inmates with mental and physical health needs. Approximately 25% of the jail's population includes those with serious health needs including mental health, substance use disorders, or physical health limitations. The IHU will improve the effectiveness and efficiencies of care and increase the likelihood of success while in custody and after release, having an impact on individuals, families, and the community.
The 14.4-million-dollar addition, approved through the Dakota County Board of Commissioners, was financed through Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The design of the space incorporates trauma-informed design features, including natural and customizable light, warm wall colors, wood-look finishing on the flooring and doors, and outdoor-connecting murals/planters from dayrooms.
“A vision five years ago has become a reality today. We are extremely excited and proud to unveil this new jail unit that serves as a model for others to follow. Our role as leaders in government is to not only evaluate why and what we do, but more importantly how we do it. We at the Sheriff's Office challenge the how and leverage opportunities to become more effective in the services we provide. Our industry leading jail health unit is the latest example of that," Sheriff Joe Leko said.
We thank all involved in this project including our County Facilities Management team, the County Board of Commissioners, and our State and Federal partners.