The numbers, Derk said, would also help to determine when a new special assistant to the warden position, with a proposed $35,000 to $45,000 salary, would be cost effective.

"I do think it would save the county money in the long run," Derk said. However, "I think the conversations we had today, may have us hold off on doing it."

He said he is still 100 percent confident in the position being created.

In other business, prison board members discussed a new contract made by the county with Prime Care, of Harrisburg, to be the prison's comprehensive medical care provider, beginning July 20. The company will handle the distribution of medication, nursing service and physician care, and telepsychiatry and medications associated with it.

Currently, telepsychiatry services are provided by New Jersey-based CFG Health Systems. By the end of the year, this contract, as well as a contract with Cost Management, which has helped the county save money on medical expenses within the prison, will be terminated.

Twenty-four other Pennsylvania counties have contracted with Prime Care, which Derk says will save Snyder County approximately $20,000 a year.

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