Teton County officials are taking significant steps toward addressing the urgent need for a new morgue facility, as discussions during a recent government meeting highlighted the inadequacies of the current setup. The existing morgue, located in a two-car garage of the old weed and pest department, has become increasingly insufficient, with the number of annual deaths in the county rising from approximately 30 to nearly 50 over the past decade.

Dr. Blue, a key figure in the discussions, emphasized the importance of providing proper care for the deceased, stating, "Societies are judged a lot by how they care for their dead, and we're not doing a good job." He outlined the need for a dedicated morgue building, estimating the total cost for construction to be between $3 million and $4 million. However, immediate funding is required to initiate the planning process.

To move forward, Dr. Blue requested $100,000 to cover architectural planning and site selection, which is crucial for developing a facility that meets the community's needs. This funding was previously included in the budget but was inadvertently dropped, leaving the project stalled. Dr. Blue expressed hope that this amount could be included in next year's fiscal budget, but emphasized the urgency of securing the funds this year to begin the necessary planning.

The proposed morgue would be purpose-built, with a size of approximately 3,000 to 4,000 square feet, significantly improving efficiency compared to the current facility. The county has already identified two potential sites in Adams Canyon for the new building.

As the discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that Teton County can provide dignified care for its deceased residents, reflecting the community's values and commitment to public health. The next steps will involve securing the requested funding and advancing the architectural plans to bring this essential project to fruition.