Supervisors debate selling, repurposing or demolishing old county jail; asbestos testing planned

Louisa County supervisors spent substantial time debating the future of the county’s old jail building, weighing preservation and reuse against demolition and sale. No final decision was reached; members said an asbestos test and cost estimates are pending before further action.

Committee member (S4) said they were not passionate about keeping the building and expressed openness to tearing it down. Other members argued the property is valuable and could be repurposed for offices or commercial uses, citing examples of adaptive reuse (a bed-and-breakfast) that retain downtown character. Concerns raised included limited parking for potential businesses, liability and the estimated cost to make the building safe and usable.

Committee member (S3) noted earlier attempts to market or repurpose the building and said community response had been mixed — some audience members at a previous discussion favored demolition. Multiple supervisors emphasized the need for accurate cost and hazard information; members reported the county is arranging asbestos testing and further assessment before deciding whether to seek bids, sell or demolish.

Board discussion acknowledged the property could generate revenue if sold or redeveloped but also noted the expense and complexity of renovating an old structure. No motion to sell or demolish was made at the meeting; supervisors agreed to await test results and estimates.

The discussion did not include a formal procurement action and no votes on disposition occurred. County staff were directed to continue assessment work and report back with asbestos testing results and cost estimates.