You will have more information on a new jail facility in Kewaunee County before you potentially vote on it next year. The Kewaunee County Board voted 17-1 on Tuesday in favor of moving forward with Phase 3 of its jail study, which will nail down the final design elements of the facility. Much of the debate was not centered around the building itself but rather how to staff it properly while also being fiscally sound. Kewaunee County Sheriff Matt Joski recently outlined the operational costs of the new facility in the Door County Daily News, saying a $1 million referendum may be needed due to current levy limits so they can hire at least four new people. Board chairperson Dan Olson suggested other solutions such as moving the sheriff’s offices to the jail to reduce the amount of jail staff needed during the first shift on weekdays. Joski said during the meeting that their staffing needs have been outlined for over a year.

Whether it be done with less than eight people or not, Kewaunee County Administrator Scott Feldt says no one really knows until Phase 3 is completed.

No other discussion, including possible referendum dates, took place following the vote. The Kewaunee County Board also passed the budget with one minor amendment that required no additional money to be spent. The budget features the lowest tax rate property owners have seen in a decade. 

MEETING VIDEO STARTS AT JAIL DISCUSSION