West Cleveland News

Cuyahoga County is considering the construction of a $750 million jail and justice campus in Garfield Heights, while also allocating funds for the maintenance of the current downtown jail. The maintenance plans include elevator and courts tower renovations, atrium upgrades, and utility planning. The final budget decisions will be made by the County Council after detailed hearings.

The funding for the new jail and justice campus in Garfield Heights is still uncertain. The existing downtown jail tower requires ongoing maintenance, which is outlined in Executive Chris Ronayne's 2024 budget. The budget includes allocations of $2.5 million for elevator renovations, $2.5 million for courts tower panel sealant and waterproofing, $1.6 million for atrium renovations, and $1.5 million for a central utilities plan study. Additionally, $43 million is earmarked for justice center capital improvements in the following year, including $18.9 million for the renovation of upper floors in the courts tower interior. All of these plans are subject to approval by the County Council after extensive hearings.

The decision on the location of the new jail and how to fund it is a matter of debate among councilmembers. County Executive Chris Ronayne has advocated for the Granger Road and Transportation Blvd. site, emphasizing the need for a more humane design that promotes better ventilation and outdoor access for inmates. Councilwoman Cheryl Stephens raised concerns about both the location and funding of the jail, stating, "Not only will we have to decide on where the jail will go, but how will we pay for it."

According to a report by WKYC 3, “Personally, I wouldn’t want to work there. I wouldn’t want to have anyone incarcerated there,” Councilwoman Meredith Turner said. She also wants to vote yes. “Now is the time for bold leadership. I’ve lived in this city. I’ve lived in this community my whole life and I have seen us spend money endlessly for things that we want. Tonight, I’m hoping we’ll spend money for the things that we need.”

The Council's decision to refer a proposed 40-year sales tax extension back to committee has created uncertainty regarding the overall funding of the project. The existing sales tax increase is set to expire in 2027.

The current downtown Cleveland jail, which houses over 26,000 inmates annually, has faced criticism for its operational inefficiency and lack of space for family and attorney visits. County Executive Chris Ronayne has emphasized the need to replace the outdated facility, stating that the current high-rise jail is detrimental to both inmates and jail staff.

As the County Council continues to deliberate on the new jail and justice campus, the funding and location of the project remain key points of discussion. The final decisions will have significant implications for the county's criminal justice system and the well-being of inmates and staff.