Our view: Write the final chapter for: Old county jail |
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Selling the old St. Louis County jail to the city of Duluth for $1, as County Board members voted yesterday to give a try, wouldn't end the frustration. The St. Louis County Board had to be frustrated. At least eight times since 1987 it has researched new ways to use its old jail building in downtown Duluth, which was abandoned when it couldn't comply with stringent new standards for lockups. Then, last week, the Duluth City Council voted against a demolition permit that could have helped the county rid itself of the decaying structure. But selling the building to the city of Duluth for $1, as County Board members voted yesterday to give a try, wouldn't end the frustration. Such a sale would only transfer the jail from one government entity to another \ with taxpayers still on the hook for insuring, inspecting and making occasional repairs to the jail. The cost, according to county administration, is about $2,000 a month. The jail needs a savior with deep pockets and a good plan. And fast. Within six months, we suggested in an editorial Sunday. The county, preservationists and anyone with an e-mail account can help spread the word. The historic jail is available. Free. Or nearly free. As long as it's saved. But come Nov. 3, if no one has stepped forward, that demolition permit could be granted, finally letting taxpayers off the hook. |