Sheriff Jim Quattrone thanks the county legislature for renting space where newly released jail inmates can go to get services. Photo by Gregory Bacon

MAYVILLE – A re-entry hub for newly released inmates from the Chautauqua County Jail is expected to be up and running by next month.

During the February legislature meeting, county lawmakers approved a resolution to lease 525 square feet from the village of Mayville at 1 South Erie St. for $450 a month. The space was formerly the village’s code office.

The Sheriff’s Office is going to use that space to encourage newly released inmates to go there and they can charge their cell phones and get other services. By law, police can’t force those released from jail to go there but Sheriff Jim Quattrone is hoping many will go to find services.

Sometimes when people have been released, they begin wandering throughout the village of Mayville, causing problems for both homeowners and businesses.

Residents have reported seeing people walk through the community carrying all their belongings in a clear garbage bag. They will often approach businesses or residents seeking money or a phone to call someone.

At times, the jail has been required to release inmates at midnight or during the overnight hours after they have finished serving their sentence. There hasn’t been a county bus available, and some released inmates decline an offer to ride in a police car back to their home.

Sheriff Jim Quattrone said they plan on getting the space ready by April 1. He said he needs to line up his staff and qualified volunteers.

Some of the services the community hub plans to offer include:

– A place to wait for transportation to their community of preference;

– A place to collect a CHQ Pass and wait for CHQ Transit;

– A place to charge their phones and make telephone calls;

– Work with re-entry specialist to review discharge plan or to create a re-entry plan;

– Staff can assist in reviewing of needs for photo identification and other basic needs;

– Assistance with Department of Social Services applications;

– Obtain lists of food pantries and other services that will assist in successful re-entry;

– Education on overdose prevention and the particular dangers for those leaving jail;

– Communication/video conferencing with NY Matters which is critical for many leaving jail;

– Clothes closet for returning to community, including appropriate clothing and coats;

– Connect individuals with housing: shelters, warming centers, respite housing, temporary/emergency housing;

– Gather information from individuals for follow up;

– A source of information regarding various services: Behavioral health clinics, warming centers/shelters, Chautauqua Works, Mental Health Association, etc. Connection with peer support when appropriate.

The Mayville Village Board gave its approval Feb. 6.