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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Lockup at the YMCA?

The Spokesman-Review

I see that the commissioners are still struggling with the cost and difficulty of building a new jail. There is an answer right under their noses if they would choose to use it.

The former YMCA building is vacant. It has several large shower and locker room facilities and also plumbing throughout, plus is up to code requirements. Of course, remodeling would cost the taxpayers but not nearly as much as acquiring new land and building a new building.

Ownership could be worked out and the building also includes two parking lots. It also has the advantage of being relatively close to the courthouse.

Many will find reasons to object to this alternative, but few will object to the cost savings.

Ray Hunter

Spokane

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