Clay County Looks at Sales Tax to Fund New Jail

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Clay County officials are making progress in trying to find a way to fund a new jail and law enforcement center.

Clay County officials are doing all they can to find a way to fund their much needed new jail without emptying the pockets of tax payers.

Clay county officials are considering a half-cent countywide sales tax to fund their new jail and law enforcement center, but the decision will ultimately be in the hands of voters.
 
“That has to be voted on by the public, and if they do vote for that that’s what we would use to pay for the new jail and law enforcement center,” said Clay County Sheriff Bill Bergquist.
 
Clay County Jail administrator Julie Savat says it’s nice to see that progress is being made.
 
“I think that were moving forward for ways of funding this new jail. I think everybody’s on board that we do need a new one,” said Savat.
 
The sales tax proposal is an alternative to residents having to pay higher property taxes.

One person I spoke to says it’s a relief to hear the tax payer is in mind.
 
“We have street repairs, we have property taxes for the school referendum so to be creative in finding new ways to come up with money is a relief to hear,” said Donna Moore, Moorhead taxpayer.
 
As a county resident and jail administrator, Julie says either way the jail is funded, it’s something that needs to and will be done.
 
“The jail is here, and it’s not going to change. It’s going to have to be paid for one way or the other. So I understand as a county resident that this has to get done,” said Savat.
 
Sheriff Bergquist says the county is also seeking funding from state legislation.
 
“We did go to the senators, and we had a meeting or discussion with them asking them for $15 million to be a part of our project,” said Bergquist.

Clay county officials will have to have the proposal ready by July 1st.

Voters will then have the chance to decide on issue during this year’s November election.