How the process moves forward

At Knox County IN Today & Tomorrow, we believe you deserve to know how your money is being spent. This page sheds light on the significant financial commitments made, the decisions that got us here, and how you can get involved. We're here to bridge the information gap and empower you to make your voice heard.

A look at the numbers: 36 million dollars and beyond

Knox County has committed to spending 36 million dollars on a jail expansion and a new Work Release Center. This massive expenditure will take us until 2045 to pay off, tying up taxpayer money for decades to come. Despite this significant investment, there are already plans to spend another 4 million dollars on an Emergency Operations Center, even as issues with the jail expansion itself remain unaddressed. This pattern suggests even more spending for additional buildings in the future, raising questions about financial priorities and long-term planning.

How did we get here so far?

Understanding how these decisions came to be is crucial for every concerned citizen. We've seen a consistent focus on expanding the Criminal Justice System, which now accounts for a staggering 75% of the Knox County budget. This allocation raises important questions about whether our resources are being used in the most effective ways for the overall well-being of our community. Explore our other pages like What Changed & Why It Matters and Who Really Decides? to understand the context and players involved.

Here is the process:

IDEA IDENTIFIED
────────────────────
Criminal justice officials identify problems:
• Jail overcrowding
• Work release capacity
• Facility safety

 

PLANNING STUDY
────────────────────
Consultants analyze: RQAW was contracted for this study

• Population trends

• Facility conditions
• Program needs
• Expansion options


RECOMMENDATIONS
────────────────────
Possible options presented in June 2020

• Expand existing jail
• Build new work release center
• Renovate facilities


COUNCIL FUNDING VOTE
────────────────────
County Council voted in April 2022

✔ Whether taxpayer money is approved
✔ Whether bonds or borrowing are used

✔ American Rescue Plan money used

✔ County Jail tax money used 


COMMISSIONER APPROVAL
────────────────────
Commissioners approve & construction begins in May 2022

✔ Architect & engineering contracts
✔ Construction bids
✔ Project agreements


CONSTRUCTION
────────────────────
Project is built and managed by
County Commissioners 

Your role in shaping the future

The citizens of Knox County have a powerful voice. It is imperative that you reach out to your elected officials and let them know how you feel about their spending decisions and the direction they continue to take. Imagine the possibilities if the 36 million dollars spent on incarcerating people had instead been used to remodel the old work release center and invest in more prevention services for our youth. Your engagement can steer our community towards a future that prioritizes holistic solutions and sustainable growth.