By Andrew Cluley
Ann Arbor, MI – Washtenaw County officials are gathering public input on the latest proposal to address overcrowding conditions at the county jail.
The first public safety and justice forum was held Tuesday in Ann Arbor.
Several county commissioners and county staff members asked residents to define important public safety issues and how to pay for those priorities.
Washtenaw County administrator Bob Guenzel
says he's pleased with some of what he heard, but is not sure the community truly understands the severity of the jail overcrowding issue.
Guenzel has asked county commissioners to approve a plan that would cost five-and-a-half million dollars a year. That plan would pay for jail expansion, court improvements, and mental health diversion programs.
Additional public forums on the issue will be held next month in Chelsea, Manchester, and Superior Township.