Sheriff’s Community Works Program in Medford

Sheriff Koutoujian, left, and Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn, right, at the DPW’s temporary work site on Thursday.

Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian was in Medford Thursday, Aug. 23, to check the progress of work being done by a Community Work Program (CWP) crew on the Medford Department of Public Work’s temporary city yards at 48 Commercial Street.

This week’s scraping and painting work is expected to save the City of Medford an estimated $4,500.
“The City of Medford found itself in a very difficult position and once again turned to Sheriff Koutoujian and the CWP program during this time of critical need,” said Medford Mayor Michael J. McGlynn. “Recently our city yard was condemned. We were able to get temporary space but it needed serious aesthetic attention and the CWP program came to our rescue saving us thousands of dollars we didn’t have.”

CWP crews are comprised of minimum security inmates who are nearing the end of their sentences and are supervised by a correctional officer. Inmates go through a rigorous screening process before being allowed to participate.

The program is designed to teach inmates the value of hard day of work while saving taxpayer money. Crews provide manual labor for public projects and cleanup efforts, but do not displace any public or private employees. They do not interfere with union or public bidding processes.

“Strong community partnerships like the one between the MSO and the City of Medford help address unique public safety situations with unique public safety solutions,” said Sheriff Koutoujian. “Our inmates learn the value of a hard day’s work and help carry the financial burden that is hindering so many municipalities.”
In 2011 Community Work Program crews provided $109,500 in estimated savings for the City of Medford and $1.54 million for communities across the county. Through June of this year communities have already saved an estimated $648,500 with approximately $39,500 for Medford alone.

– Information and photo from Middlesex Sheriff’s office