Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Jail Construction topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Houghton County commissioners advance design and outreach plans for proposed 70‑bed jail
Summary
At a June 2 work session, commissioners discussed conceptual designs, a $3,500 concept‑drawing fee from Abonmarche Byce, formation of a citizens committee to lead outreach and fundraising, and plans for printed and door‑to‑door materials paid in part by the League of Women Voters.
Houghton County commissioners on Monday discussed early designs and public outreach for a proposed 70‑bed jail and agreed to pursue a public information push while bids are solicited.
Commissioner Roy Britz said the county should get local contractors to bid on the project and noted Abonmarche Byce will provide concept drawings for a fixed fee of $3,500. Britz described a two‑steel‑building concept — one building for the sheriff and one for the jail — and said concept drawings should show the layout of the pods. Commissioner Glenn Anderson urged a design that is basic but professional, not ornate.
Chairman Tom Tikkanen asked staff to seek a proposal from Abonmarche Byce for the next week and recommended public outreach materials. The board discussed a trifold handout that the League of Women Voters would pay for and mentioned door‑to‑door distribution and parade outreach. Faith Morrison volunteered to contact Becky Bruin‑Slot about placing a banner and to produce a 20‑minute presentation video. Commissioners also discussed a targeted direct mail effort and asked Morrison to review costs.
Commissioners proposed forming a "Citizens Committee For A Safe And Effective Jail" to lead outreach and private fundraising. Commissioner Glenn Anderson noted that the county itself cannot write checks for fundraising efforts but the Board can support and endorse a citizen committee. Commissioner Roy Britz said he would follow up with potential donors alongside the sheriff. Chairman Tikkanen said millage information on the county website needed correction before broader outreach.
No formal vote or bond sale timing was set. Commissioners said bonds would not be sold until a contractor is locked in and bids are available. The Board asked that a draft design and proposal be ready for review at the next meeting.
The Board assigned follow‑up: obtain Abonmarche Byce proposal, form the citizen committee, and develop outreach materials for public distribution.
