JACKSON, Wyo. — On Tuesday, July 30, Teton County launched two education-based websites to provide a detailed look into the future of a new County Justice Center that would replace the existing Teton County Courthouse and Detention Center.
The Justice Center building has been proposed as the most efficient solution for the Courthouse and Detention Center rebuild, according to Teton County design teams. The building is planned to house both newly constructed facilities.
According to Teton County, six years of research and studies show that the aging Courthouse, which was built in the 1960s, has severe deficiencies in energy efficiency, security, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility and structural integrity. The building is the oldest County facility, having only one major upgrade in 1997. The Detention Center has similar deficiencies, according to the County.
The total cost of the new County Justice Center will be approximately $118 million and Teton County has budgeted $30 million for the project. To help bridge the cost gap, the Teton County Board of County Commissioners and the Jackson Town Council approved a resolution to add a proposed $88 million Justice Center Specific Purpose Excise Tax (SPET) for voters to consider on the November 5 election ballot. If the tax revenue collection rates remain constant, Teton County estimates that it will take approximately 4.5 years to acquire the funds to pay for the proposed Justice Center in 2029.
The newly launched Justice Center engagement site provides an overview of the Courthouse and Detention Center, funding opportunities and election information. The public can also access a second site that provides a detailed timeline of the Courthouse and Detention Center.
In addition, several in-person and virtual events will provide opportunities for community members to share feedback on the proposed Justice Center.
Presentation and discussion at the Teton County Library in Jackson:
- September 17 at 12 or 5 p.m.
- October 23 at 12 or 5 p.m.
Zoom Lunch and Learn sessions:
- Wednesday, August 7 at 12 p.m.
- Wednesday, September 11 at 12 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 9 at 12 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 30 at 12 p.m.
Zoom links, topic dates, upcoming community events and updates on the Teton County Justice Center SPET will be posted on the Justice Center’s site at engagetetoncountywy.com closer to the dates.
