Supporters of old jail, sheriff's house launch online petition

Cole County residents are exercising their First Amendment rights in support of keeping the historic Cole County Sheriff's House and Jail intact.

Some are writing letters to the press and others have contacted the Cole County Commissioners directly.

A third option emerged last week - an online petition.

"Because it is a publicly-owned building, the voters should have control of this," said Terri Rademan. "The commission should listen to what their voters have to say."

Ever since voters approved building a new jail and sheriff's office complex, the Cole County Commission has been considering ways the county could continue using the old jail and sheriff's house space. But commissioners say those buildings are too small for one of the county's needs - a new, larger courtroom than the four currently being used - and commissioners say one of their options is to demolish the two older buildings and replace them with a new structure that provides more space.

The commission is expected to revisit the issue at its April 16 meeting.

For Rademan, who created the online petition, this is her first time to speak up about preserving the city's heritage.

"Many people read about these things and say "that's a shame,' but they don't take it to the next step," she said. "I encourage people to get the word out.

"That's what America is all about, voicing your opinion."

After reading letter to the editor in the News Tribune this winter, Rademan said she began a dialog with Commissioner Jeff Hoelscher, who invited her to speak at a commission meeting.

"I think there are a lot more people in this community than they realize who don't want to see them come down," Rademan said.

Residents 41 years ago saw the historic value of the courthouse and its two neighbors when all three were listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

But it's 21st century social media that is likely to drive awareness and participation in this issue.

"For my age group and younger, social media is the way to go," said 30-something Rademan.

As friends share with other friends, thousands of people may be reached in a short amount of time.

Once the online names are collected, Rademan will deliver them to the commission, prior to its final vote on the fate of the stone structures.

"We're hoping by getting a lot of signatures, it will impress," she said. "We want to use every option available.

"The more voices and more contact they have from us, the more they may listen and see how important this is to the community."