At its May 29, 2024, work session the Johnson County Board of Supervisors will discuss the “need” to invest $80 million to build new cages for people in our community.
The Johnson County Jail needs assessment is stuffed with language to suggest it isn’t just about locking people up. It’s about “right sizing needs”! It’s about “Supporting Law Enforcement and the community as a whole”!
The renderings of the palatial, glass-fronted office and jail on Page 17 get even heavier handed, suggesting the building will be a “Civic landmark,” “Evoke community pride,” and “Instill a sense of safety and security.”
I am uninterested in my community having a jail as a landmark, nor will this evoke pride in my community.
At least there is no claim that this edifice will actually offer safety and security. We know that comes from meeting people’s basic needs, not imprisoning them.
You can connect with the Board of Supervisors to let them know how you feel about spending $80 million to imprison people in your community at sups@johnsoncountyiowa.gov, attend and offer public comment at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in conference room 203C at 855 S. Dubuque St. in Iowa City, or call (319) 356-6000.
Start talking about this now to build momentum against yet another bond referendum in a year or so.
Abolition: Yes! 