The Shelby County Jail received another passing grade after the annual Texas Commission on Jail Standards’ inspection was conducted last Thursday.

According to Jail Administrator William “BB”Cox other than some paperwork technicalities, the jail was in compliance to regulation, despite the physical challenges brought on by an aging infrastructure.

Cox said the 30-year old facility is costly to upkeep, especially plumbing valves and cell door locks when they break. He said those items can run over $1,000 each to replace since they’re pretty well obsolete. However, it all worked when the command was given during the surprise inspection. This included hot water in showers, fire alarms, cell doors and generator.

Cox said the inspector told County Judge Allison Haribson and Sheriff Willis Blackwell, “You’re doing the best with what you’ve got.” He noted the jail inspector can shut one down at any time if it doesn’t pass.

It marked the third consecutive year that the Shelby County Jail has been in compliance under Cox’s administration.

He attributes the jail passing inspection to having a good staff that takes care of business.