Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale, Illinois

Jackson judge and board clash over jail building plan

In Jackson County a dispute flares between Circuit Judge Richard E. Richman and the county board's ad hoc construction panel over the contents of a proposed new jail and office facility. Richman seeks two courtrooms and two jury rooms with adequate space for witnesses and jurors, while the committee touts a leaner plan. Recommendations hinge on whether to renovate Turco Manufacturing or build anew to address court needs and budget constraints.