Corrections official warns of crowding

"It's definitely come up and she recognizes the fact that we have a need for beds," Covington said. "Corrections has come up with a solution she thinks is cost-effective and can also house the growth in inmates."

Walker also recognizes the need for legislative support for any proposals on a special session agenda, Covington said. "Her position is she needs to continue to meet with leadership and she'll determine whether there needs to be a special session."

Also Tuesday, the Joint Executive Appropriations Committee heard from state fair officials. Sen. Bill Hickman, R-St. George, said he wanted more information about the $800,000 cost to the state of running the fairgrounds.

"I'm trying to determine in my own mind that value of the event," Hickman said, suggesting that some of the older buildings might need to be torn down and some of the fairgrounds sold to cover what he called a subsidy.

Past fair administrators have had an "emotional attachment" to the event, Hickman said. "I'd just like to have an objective look."

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