Scaled-back jail expansion would still require tax hike

TUPELO, Miss. (AP) — A northeast Mississippi County is considering a scaled-down jail expansion and renovation, after shooting down a much larger plan over the summer.

The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reports that Lee County supervisors on Monday discussed an $8 million plan to add 100 beds to the jail's current 200, and also add medical facilities, secure cells for mentally ill prisoners, and a laundry room. Some renovation of the current jail would also be included.
Supervisor Phil Morgan says a small property tax increase would be needed to pay for the project.
Officials earlier rejected a plan for a new 600-bed jail estimated to cost $51 million.