Public survey shows low support for new Jail Bond Measure

Jackson County, Or — A push for a new jail has now become an uphill battle after public opinion polls show little interest in paying for the new facility.

A telephone survey of 329 Jackson County residents of all demographics showed 54% were not in favor of a bond measure to pay for the jail.

Even more, 71%, were against a property tax district to pay for jail operations.

There is no measure currently on the ballot, and county commissioners say they have a lot of work to do before they take that step.

“When the survey came in, a bit below 50%, that clearly indicates there’s work to be done, I’m not totally surprised, but I know the path ahead is going to be filled with opportunities to educate the public,” said Commissioner Bob Strosser.

Future meetings will discuss how to proceed with any plans to fund a new jail.

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Matt Jordan is the Chief Meteorologist for KOBI-TV NBC5. Matt joined the NBC5 weather team in 2014 after a year as a reporter and anchor in Alexandria, Louisiana. His experience with the severe weather of the Deep South and a love of the Pacific Northwest led him to pursue a certification with Mississippi State University as a Broadcast Meteorologist. You can find Matt working in the evenings of NBC5 News at 5, 6 and 11 as well as online. Matt also has a degree in Journalism from the University of Oregon. In addition to being passionate about news and weather, Matt is a BIG Oregon Ducks fan. When not rooting for the Ducks or tracking down the next storm over the Pacific, Matt can be found outdoors in the Oregon wilderness with his wife, his daughter and their dogs Stanley and Gordi.
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