Madison in the Morning

Madison in the Morning

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Dane Co Supervisors overwhelmingly approve jail renovation in 31-5 vote

MADISON (WKOW) - In a decisive move during Thursday night's meeting, the Dane County Board voted 31-5 to approve amending the County budget to afford the Jail Consolidation Project. 

County supervisors grappled with the dilemma of whether to accept the only bid received for the renovation and consolidation of the county jail or restart the process. The decision sparked intense debate, particularly as the proposal received exceeded the budget by nearly $30 million. 

Originally, supervisors had allocated $148 million for the project, covering the construction of a new 6-story tower and the renovation of existing portions of the public safety building.

Throughout the process, supervisors expressed concerns that any further delay might lead to increased costs for taxpayers in the long run. Sheriff Barrett highlighted the urgent need for action, stating that living and working conditions had deteriorated to the point where some inmates had to be relocated to nearby facilities in Iowa, Rock, and Oneida counties due to space constraints in Dane County.

While some members of the community voiced support for the project, others argued that the county should prioritize efforts to reduce the jail population instead of investing in infrastructure.

"There is a reason for this facility," argued Adam Gifford, a Dane County resident who spoke during the meeting. "If you haven't taken a tour or seen it, it's very inhumane."

"Incarceration is inherently violent and inhumane," said Ally Bates, another Dane County resident. "You cannot spend enough money to make a jail humane."

"As elected officials, it is our responsibility to close the unsafe and inhumane City County Building permanently," said Sheriff Barrett.

More at WKOW 27 News


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