Rhea County Sheriff’s Office Officials say the new Justice Center will be fully funded by revenue from housing inmates.

Sheriff Mike Neal announced that the County Commission passed a resolution in June 2025 authorizing the $1.7 million annual payment for the facility to be fully funded through those revenues. The effort generates about $4 million each year, with additional funds from commissary sales, inmate phones, and state office rent covering utility costs.

“This is a win for the taxpayers of Rhea County,” said Sheriff Mike Neal. “We are now making the Justice Center payment because of this resolution, without relying on additional tax dollars. That’s something we’re incredibly proud of.”

County leaders say the project reflects strong collaboration between the Sheriff’s Office, C

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