By Marlana Smith
In the April 4 election, Shelby County voters passed two propositions, allowing the construction of a $7.1 million jail.
With a 30.13 percent participation, Proposition 1 passed, 691, yes and 612, no. Proposition 2 passed, 660, yes and 638, no.
The county is in the process of purchasing three properties where the new jail will be constructed, north of the courthouse in Shelbyville. According to Shelby County Presiding Commissioner Terry Helmick the cost of the properties is $12,501, plus closing costs and what the quiet title suit is going to cost.
Helmick said once the county closes on the properties, bid requests will be sent out for the demolition and site clean-up.
“The final DNR findings showed that all ground contamination levels are within the acceptable range, meaning that other than the removal of the two underground tanks and the asbestos siding, there are no further issues with the cleanup,” said Helmick.
The county has applied for a Brownfields grant to assist with the cost of the tank and asbestos removal.
Helmick told the Herald on Friday, July 7, 2023, he plans to attend a meeting Monday regarding the Brownfield program.
