I’m beginning this letter by stating that my comments following have nothing to do with the location of the proposed jail expansion, nor the need for a jail expansion.
During the March 12, 2019, City Council meeting, non-truths were presented, and the public deserves to know. Councilmember Kidwiler made statements that led the audience to believe that the cost of the jail expansion project has doubled since its original estimate. This statement is not true; the cost from the first complete estimate has increased by about $2 million, not the roughly $7 million as stated by Kidwiler.
On April 5, 2017, an article in The Brookings Register (Register) reported that the jail expansion project was approved to move forward, costing around $11 million with a projected $7.3 million property tax bond, with County cash on hand making up the remaining cost.
On Sept. 27, 2017, the Register reported in advance of a Brookings Board of Adjustment meeting relating to a variance for the jail expansion, that the estimated project cost had elevated to $12.6 million from the previous $11 million estimate.
During the March 12, 2019, City Council meeting, County Commissioner Bartley stated that the new projected cost is $13.7 million depending on what bid is selected.
There have been definite changes made to the proposals over these two years that affect the cost, but the fact remains that the project cost has not doubled. Councilmember Kidwiler is inaccurate as she is referring to the bond as the original project cost.
Councilmember Kidwiler later read prepared remarks showing her support to complete the jail expansion project as soon as possible. These remarks were irrelevant, as the City Council was not voting on the project advancement; they were voting to deny or allow the County to bypass the review process. This review process is required of every business or citizen regarding historical property modifications in the City of Brookings. Should government entities be able to avoid the law?
Thank you Councilmembers Hansen, Niemeyer, Bacon, Wendell, and Tilton Byrne for voting to uphold our city laws rather than allowing the County to bypass them. Setting this precedent is essential for future rulings, and I commend you for your ability to separate the controversy of the project from the task at hand.
