Question 1

The current jail was designed to allow for future expansion – why isn’t the proposed project using that option?

Accepted Answer

It is. The current jail was originally designed so that precast sections could be removed to build an addition. The proposed design takes advantage of this feature and incorporates it into the planned expansion.

Question 2

Will the jail pod expansion have enough room to house inmates from other counties?

Accepted Answer

The jail expansion is first designed to meet the needs of the County. If capacity is available, beds could be rented to other counties as an additional source of revenue for Wapello County.

Question 3

Weren’t we supposed to receive revenue for housing inmates from other counties in the current jail?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The county did receive revenue for housing inmates from other counties for a period. However, as our own inmate population increased, available space became more limited. Additionally, inmates must be housed according to required classifications, which limits how available beds can be used. As a result, the jail no longer had sufficient capacity to regularly house inmates from other counties. Learn more about inmate classifications.

Question 4

Can the county continue housing inmates in other counties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Continuing to house inmates in other counties is an option. Both approaches (continue to house inmates out of county or a jail expansion) involve different resources and expenditures. The county is hopeful it can provide information on both options so that residents may make an informed decision on which approach they would like the county to pursue.

Question 5

Will the tax impact rate go up over the 20-year span of the bond, if my assessed value continues to go up?

Accepted Answer

The estimated tax rate associated with the bond is intended to remain the same over the 20-year term. The estimated tax impact is for the bond referendum alone. The tax impact with regard to the expenditures associated with operating cost of an expanded jail cannot be reasonably estimated. Operational costs are generally dispersed through the county general fund. Balancing and allocating monies out of the general fund is a yearly obligation of the Board of Supervisors. Given the numerous factors that may change on a yearly basis, numbers are too varied to provide an estimate.

Question 6

Can I get an absentee ballot?

Accepted Answer

You can learn more about absentee voting and get an absentee ballot request form on the "Voting" page of this website or visit https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/electioninfo/absenteeinfo.html

Question 7

How can I confirm my vote was received and counted?

Accepted Answer

You can track your absentee ballot at: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/absenteeballotstatus/search.aspx.