Weigh the options
A figure has been divulged for a new county judicial center — and it's a whopper. Despite the large price tag, all of the information needs to be weighed.
Here are the facts.
Fact A. The current jail is outdated, unsafe for prisoners and employees, and does not meet required guidelines.
At some point, authorities could tell the county that the jail can no longer be used.
What happens then?
1. County prisoners could be incarcerated in another facility at Marion County taxpayers' expense. This expense also could include time spent transporting new arrests and prisoners for court appearances; or
2. A new county jail could be built to house county prisoners and inmates from other counties to provide additional revenue to pay the bonds.
Fact B. The third floor of the century-old courthouse that accommodates the courtroom, district court offices, and corrections personnel will be required to be secured. Local officials have stated that it is doubtful if sufficient improvements can be made to meet anticipated requirements that include additional, secured exits.
What happens then?
1. Court proceedings could be moved to another courthouse in another county which would be a loss of jobs and an inconvenience for taxpayers; or
2. Construct a courtroom and district court facilities with the jail. Do it once and be done with it.
How will we pay for this?
1. A combination of increases in sales tax and property tax has been proposed by the commission. With an increased sales tax, it puts an unfair advantage on Marion County over other counties, more particularly for large ticket items. When the sales tax is implemented, if voters approve it, it stays in place until the entire bond is paid.
2. A property tax only increase is the option some would like the county to take. As the bonds are paid down, the mill levy would decrease. Anticipated revenue from the facility should pay off the bond in less time than anticipated.
The decision is ours and the commission's. Let's hope we make the right choice, one we can live with for the next 25-50 years.
