A new Department of Corrections policy that standardizes pay for inmate work crews will cost the City of Alva an estimated $1,000 per month more. City Business Manager Joe Don Dunham reported the change at the Alva City Council meeting Monday, June 19. Alva has been paying $2 per day per offender used or an estimated $40.25 per month per offender. Rates vary across the state.

The number of inmates used can also vary. Alva has a contract for up to 26 per day from Bill Johnson Correction Center (BJCC). That number is not always available, and the number needed by the city varies according to the...