On Wednesday, the Butler County Commission received an initial proposal for the new jail. The figure rang in at a whopping $3.8 million dollars

$800,000 more than had been budgeted for the new facility.

Each of the five commissioners made comments concerning the fact that the budget was only set for $3 million, and that even that figure was actually more than they wanted to spend.

But, the fact remains, Butler County needs a new jail. If they do not build one, then the state legislators will make them do so and it is possible that legal action could occur if the facility is not built.

In addition, the commission just recently approved the spending of $500,000 to bring a new company to the area to increase the number of jobs available in the county and to decrease the unemployment rate, which is one of the highest in the state.

Still, the fact remains, Butler County needs a jail and the residents of the county also need jobs.

The commission quickly stated to the architect that the budget would not allow for that amount of money and are planning to discuss what could be cut from the jail that is not absolutely necessary.

The commission is facing some hard decisions and the citizens of Butler County should stand behind them and assist them in making the right decision.

Take action. Attend the commission workshops and the meetings. Find out what's going on and express opinions.