Letter to the Editor: Voting no on jail bond issue

To the Editor:
I am going to vote no on the jail bond issue. Why? Because over the 75-year life, the location will add a tremendous operating cost.
One could build a on pillars on the west side of the courthouse that would create a garage and access to the courthouse in inclement weather (no snow removal either).
At the County Home, the following would be constant operating expenses:
1. Additional deputy and car, probably part time.
2. Additional standby generator.
3. Additional heat, higher priced LP than natural gas.
4. Additional janitor and groundskeeper.
The transportation of inmates for court appearances and trial would be a constant expense.
At the parking lot you’d have an easier handicapped entrance at the side door (currently kept locked?).
The operating expense is a major consideration. Duplicate heating, standby generator and other duplications would easily add more employees for the next 75 years. I’ve seen the county employee payroll explode in the last 50 years. Maybe we need to think ahead and stop the payroll expansion.
Once the concrete is set you’re forever committed.

Dale Reiser
Dorchester