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December 9th, 2008

Commissioners Approve Exploring Acquisition Of Christianson Seed Site For Location Of New Community Justice Center

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously today to authorize the exploration of acquisition of the Christianson Seed site as the location of a new Community Justice Center. The site is located south of Kincaid Street in Downtown Mount Vernon.

Skagit County Sheriff Chief Corrections Deputy Gary Shand and Charlie Wend with the Washington State Department of Corrections made the presentation to the commissioners. According to Shand, the current corrections facility was built for 83 inmates with the number of beds being increased to 180. During the week of November 30 to December 6, 2008, they were responsible for 260 people.

Wendt, chairman of the Facilities Task Force said he has been working on the process since 1995. “We’re at a crisis stage and really need to move forward.”

Sheriff Rick Grimstead thanked all members of the Law and Justice Council for their help. “We have our eye on the ball and even in tough times, we’ll keep moving forward,” he said.

“The toughest part is to select a site,” said Commissioner Don Munks. The Facilities Task Force with the assistance of consultants, initially evaluated nine sites within the city of Mount Vernon.

Skagit County initiated the first of two Community Summits regarding the project last summer and after receiving public input into the sites under consideration identified two additional sites including the Christianson Seed Warehouse site. At the second summit on September 15, 2008. the public was asked to comment on the two sites, with a significant majority favoring the site Skagit County will now explore acquiring.

“It’s the right thing to do,” said Commissioner Sharon Dillon. “I would like to thank the sheriff for moving it forward.”

For further information, contact:

Dan Berentson

Communications Director

360-419-3461