Newest Jail Bond Proposal

SMITH COUNTY — Smith County taxpayers say no to funding new schools through property taxes, many citing a tight budget. Tuesday night though, county leaders discussed a new plan that could raise property taxes — building a jail in Smith County. According to KETK, commissioners confirmed they have agreed on a $33 million project to add almost 400 beds to the existing jail. Overcrowding has been a big problem in the county for years and they say sending inmates to other counties is costing millions. Smith County leaders have put at least 3 jail proposals before voters; all of them have been rejected. No official word on when taxpayers will hear more about this plan or be able to vote on it.