County approves updated plan for new jail

PORTAGE COUNTY— On Nov. 18, after months of conversations, strategic design meetings, information gathering, and presentations, the Portage County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the county to borrow up to $160,000,000 through general obligation promissory notes to finance construction of a new jail/law enforcement center and make courthouse safety and security improvements. The approved projects are Phase 1 of the county’s plan. A full remodel of the courthouse will be considered as part of Phase 2 of the project.
For more than twenty years, Portage County has discussed the need for a new law enforcement center to address overcrowding, improve safety for staff and inmates, incorporate updated security systems, and provide rehabilitation programs to inmates. Additionally, since 2008, the county has sought to renovate the courthouse to meet safety and security needs.