Your Opinion: Evaluate long-term county space needs

Dear Editor:

The Cole County Commissioners are considering either demolishing the old county jail and sheriff's residence or renovating it. The less expensive option is to renovate the existing structure.

The county's need for additional space reminds me of the old saying, "It's déjà-vu all over again." I did a quick search of the News Tribune's online archives and found that every few years the commission (different commissioners, same problem) have been faced with space problems. The new jail was a major challenge. But in addition to the need for a new jail, they struggled with how to best use the Carnegie Building. At one time they considered selling it. And there have been other needs for improving or increasing space.

I realize the commission must meet the needs of the county: provide additional courtroom space, provide services to residents, a safe and secure courthouse and jail, parking for customers, efficient offices for staff, and many other needs. I encourage them to take a step back, and look thoroughly at their needs for space, and how to meet those needs, not just for the next five to 10 years, but for the long term.

I don't want to see some huge task force, take three years to assess their needs and make proposals. I recall that the first attempt to come up with a plan for the new jail had involved such a committee, with judges, staff from the sheriff's department and county commissioners traveling to other areas for ideas. In the end their proposal was defeated. I suspect one reason that effort failed was because the community believed, whether right or wrong, that we did not have input into the plans and decision making.

And that is what I would like to see from the county commission: give the community a chance to learn about their needs and weigh in on the solution. I am not asking for a large committee, or a long drawn out time frame. A small group, with a realistic time frame like four to six months may provide the commission and the community with a complete picture of their space needs, and multiple recommendations on how to meet those needs, efficiently and in a cost-effective manner.

I do appreciate all three commissioners agreeing to postpone their decision. I hope they will hear and understand what people in this community are expressing about the old jail and sheriff's residence.