Mower County’s jail population has been higher than normal for the last month, but the county doesn’t need to hire more jailers — at least not yet.

Mower County Sheriff Terese Amazi confirmed the jail population has been averaging about 80 inmates over the last month, up from the typical 65 to 70.

If the jail population consistently hits 88 inmates, the county would need to contact the Department of Corrections and possibly hire five new jailers.

It would be costly to hit the 88 mark, as Amazi estimated each new employee would cost the county about $80,000 in salary and benefits.

“We’re certainly aware of it,” Amazi said.

The jail staff is currently 30 people, plus one part-time employee.