Press Release - Proposed Public Safety Center:  Community Questions & Concerns

February 29, 2024

 For Immediate Release

 Contact:   Jeremy Scott, County Administrator
                     231-533-6265, countyadmin@antrimcounty.org

 Proposed Public Safety Center:
Community Questions and Concerns

BELLAIRE, Mich. – 33 people from across the county recently sat down for a listening session about the proposed Antrim County Public Safety Center (PSC). Questions from members of the advisory work group centered on five primary topics: community benefits, construction costs, mental health programming, community outreach, and jail safety/standards/technology.

The work group will be discussing the five topics in coming months. A report to the community will be published in August 2024. The report’s goal is respond to all community questions regarding the PSC. An FAQ is already available through the top menu of the Antrim County website at: How Do I > Proposed Public Safety Center.

Many work group members took advantage of Sheriff Kevin Hoch’s offer to tour the almost 70-year old jail. Afterward, more than one member of the group congratulated the sheriff and his staff for doing their jobs so well given the jail’s challenging conditions.

“This collaborative spirit is exactly what we need for a project of this scale,” said Jeremy Scott, Antrim County Administrator. “Everyone coming together to ask questions, share ideas, and identify potential challenges will move us toward a successful project for our community.”

In addition to Antrim County residents, work group members include representatives from 16 organizations. Guidelines from the National Institute of Corrections were used to assemble the group. Residents who would like to be a part of the efforts regarding the Public Safety Center can contact the Antrim County Administration Office at countyadmin@antrimcounty.org or 231-533-6265.

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