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Public commenters press Barry County commissioners for jail feasibility report; board says consultant will present findings
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Summary
Public commenters told the Barry County Board of Commissioners the consultant’s final jail feasibility study report has not been delivered and questioned cost figures; Chair Jackson said the full report will be shared when received and the consultant will present findings at a future meeting.
During the Jan. 27 Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting, public commenters raised concerns that the county has not received the consultant’s full jail feasibility study report and questioned accuracy of cost figures used in the study.
Shelly Lake of Irving Township told commissioners she was concerned the consultant’s final report had not been provided to the board and referenced related correspondence in the Pung v. Isabella County matter. "She referenced the presentation provided and expressed concern that the final report from the study firm has not yet been received," the minutes record.
Another commenter, Larry Bass of Carlton Township, said incorrect financial figures from the study firm had significantly increased the projected cost of a new jail and urged the board to revisit past meeting structures and consider ordinances for data centers.
Chair David Jackson responded that the full 320‑page report has not been given to the board and that it will be shared when received; he said the consulting firm will give a presentation on their findings at a future meeting. The minutes do not record any consultant response during this session nor a vote or directive to alter the study.
The exchange in public comment was recorded as concerns and requests for additional information rather than as a formal board action. Commissioners did not vote on the jail study during the Jan. 27 meeting; the minutes indicate follow-up will occur when the consultant delivers the report and returns to present.