State says this century-old jail must be replaced

MONTICELLO – Sullivan County officials will have many decisions to make in the next several months as they develop plans to build a new county jail, that could cost close to $100 million. The state has mandated it replace its old, dilapidated and over-crowded facility adjacent to the courthouse in Monticello.

County Legislature Chairman Jonathan Rouis said much planning will be ahead for lawmakers.

“For the next few months, we must site the jail and begin the pre-construction process all while working to insure that the county is building a jail that meets the specifications outlined by the Department of Corrections and is financed in the most fiscally responsible manner possible,” he said.

If built according to state mandates, a consulting firm reported in January that the jail would cost $105 million.  Other options could possibly lower the cost to under $80 million.  County residents would pick up the tab through a bond.