Calumet County leaders are considering spending $35 million for a new jail, and a courthouse remodeling project.
Sheriff Mark Wiegert believes the time has come for a new jail. He points out that even with diversion programs, they can’t keep up with the number of criminals anymore. He says they have to send up to 20 inmates to other jails because of overcrowding.
The current Calumet County jail was built in 1976. Wiegert says the facility is at the end of its lifespan. He compares it to having to remodel a house after 40 years.
The new jail would be built next to the courthouse.
The county board could vote on the proposal later this month.
