Johnson County residents will decide this November whether to approve a $94.5 million bond to finance construction of a new county jail after the Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to place the measure on the ballot.
County officials say the existing jail, which is nearly 50 years old, no longer meets the community’s needs. They point to ongoing maintenance issues, including roof leaks and deteriorating cell walls, as well as overcrowding that has pushed the facility beyond its original capacity. Officials have also said recent changes to Iowa law affecting booking and release procedures have increased the need for additional jail space.
If approved, the bond would be repaid through property taxes. County estimates indicate the owner of an average-priced home could see an increase of about $100 per year in property taxes, not including the additional cost of interest over the life of the bond.
The proposal has drawn opposition from some county leaders. Supervisor V Fixmer-Oraiz voted against placing the measure on the ballot, arguing that the project would place a financial burden on taxpayers without addressing broader concerns about the county’s incarceration system.
Johnson County voters have rejected three previous jail bond proposals. Under Iowa law, the bond will require 60% voter approval to pass.
Source: Iowa Public Radio (IPR News)
