A new Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and Jail could be built in western Iowa City, according to a recently approved purchase agreement from the Johnson County Board of Supervisors.
On Thursday, July 2, the board voted unanimously to buy 35 acres of land on Melrose Avenue directly adjacent to the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm and across the street from the Iowa National Guard Armory.
The county has not finalized development plans, according to a Johnson County press release. However, it “is intended to serve as a long-term asset for future County development needs, including a new sheriff’s office and jail.”
How will Johnson County fund its new land purchase?
Funds to pay for the land will come from the county’s financial reserves at an estimated cost of $2.1 million. The county is expected to close on the property within 180 days…