Purchase of an ultra-violet light sanitizing system for $40,000 was approved by the Vilas County Public Property committee recently for primary use in the Justice department, jail, and courthouse but could also be used in other locations.
According to Joe Fath, Vilas County Sheriff, the unit is portable and can sanitize a room within a half hour. “It's ultra-violet light is very bright and it's smart to get this type of technology to keep our jail guests and staff safe,” Fath said. “We can use it to sanitize our squad cars and all equipment and could be taken to nursing homes, child care centers, and other locations if necesssary.”
The Sheriff indicated both Dane and Oneida counties have this unit with Oneida rotating it through their jail. When asked how effective it is, Fath said it will kill COVID-19.
Supervisor Carolyn Ritter asked about it's operation indicating “we can't spray chemicals on our laptops or computers but this can be used.” County clerk Dave Alleman felt the cost could be added to other costs the county has encountered in response to COVID-19 and eventually submitted to the state for reimbursement.
Fath said it would take up to 60 days for delivery with the cost split from the jail, law enforcement, and maintenance accounts.
