Three members appointed to county corrections board

by Jazz Clark
The Morgan County Commissioners selected three members for a new corrections board after interviewing three more applicants at their Thursday, October 4 meeting.

The Community Corrections Board, not to be confused with the former corrections committee, oversees those serving community service sentences in Morgan County.

Another of the group’s goals is fixing mistakes on regional jail bills. Recently, mistakes were found that saved the county over $3,000, said Commission President Stacy Dugan.

“It’s nothing but positive when we can save that much money in the course of one meeting,” Dugan said.
In all, six people were considered as potential board additions. Michael Hagstad, Donald Lambert, Jr. and Richard Romano were interviewed last Thursday while Chris Domich, Keith DeBlasio and Dale McConnell were interviewed at previous meetings.

Hagstad has a history in the corrections field as a teacher of criminal justice, corrections analyst and as an officer. He has also been a member of several service groups involving law enforcement.

Lambert cited his professional experience as a land surveyor for 30 years and his life experience as what sets him apart. He said he wants to get involved with the community.

Romano served 26 years with the Maryland Department of Corrections, retiring as captain. He wanted to be on the board to help and oversee community service.

After the interviews, Commissioner Brad Close proposed that they appoint Hagstad, McConnell and Romano.

Commissioner Brenda Hutchinson said all three were at the top of her list and had strong experience.

The nominations were unanimously approved. The board now has a complete slate of 15 members.

The group’s meetings are tentatively set for the second Tuesday of the month, with the next at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 16. Meetings are open to the public.

Officers are expected to be chosen at their next meeting and bylaws are in the works.