It's back to the drawing board for Schoolcraft County officials
SCHOOLCRAFT COUNTY -- The current Schoolcraft County jail does not meet state standards. And what to do about it has been on a lot of minds lately.
But last night, voters rejected the idea of using their tax money to pay for a new jail to be built. A five-year tax for Michigan State University extension programs was also rejected.
“People are tired of taxes and I understand that,” explains Schoolcraft County Sheriff, Grant Harris. “And this would mean that they'd be paying a little more for taxes. Second thing was the fact that Camp Manistique was vacant down there."
The request was for 1.2 mills for 20 years to fund jail construction.
Voters also said no to paying half a mill for 20 years for jail maintenance.
The voters have been heard, and commissioners are saying Camp Manistique is still being considered in discussions.
“That's a huge thing on people's minds--seeing that building,” explains commissioner, Craig Reiter. “And they want the jobs. And if there were something that could incorporate everything in the future, that would be great. But there's a lot of planning that has to go forward."
Reopening the camp would certainly bring jobs and generate money. But for now, officials are looking at two options for the current jail: outsourcing inmates or renovating.
“Well right now, we're still trying to regroup and come up with a plan,” Sheriff Harris said. “And we've got to talk to the MDOC to see what they're saying."
The sheriff and board members will meet tomorrow night at Circuit Court to discuss how to move forward from here.