ANTRIM COUNTY — Voters in Antrim County have approved an $18 million bond proposal to build a new public safety center, replacing the current jail, which has been in use for 70 years.
According to unofficial election results, Tuesday night saw 6,189 total votes on the proposal, with 3,253 in favor and 2,936 against.
County officials say the new public safety center will modernize local law enforcement operations by housing the county jail, 911 dispatch center, and sheriff’s office all under one roof.
Antrim County Sheriff’s officials have frequently cited safety concerns at the current facility, including blind spots, outdated layouts, and inadequate space for staff and inmates.
Supporters of the proposal argued that a new facility is long overdue, saying it will provide residents greater access to safety resources and allow law enforcement to respond more efficiently.
With the bond approved, county leaders say the next steps will be moving forward with design and planning—aiming to create a safer, more modern facility without adding new costs for residents.
The new public safety center will be built on county-owned land, though an exact location has not yet been finalized.