Support the bond referendum for new justice center

I will support the May 7 bond referendum for the Johnson County Justice Center, but I understand the reluctance of voters to approve a $43.5 million project.

Public buildings, which are typically designed for 100-year life spans, involve considerable upfront costs. The new federal building in Cedar Rapids and the many additions to University Hospital (Iowa City) are cases in point.

We have a growing community. With growth comes growing pains. We need new schools to accommodate the growing K-12 student population, which requires a commitment from taxpayers.

Similarly, the county has inadequate courthouse and jail facilities. As taxpayers, we need to bite the bullet and fund a justice center to address the very real concerns of space, safety and security. Given historically low interest rates, it is an ideal time to issue bonds.

I ask the community to show the same foresight as those who built the existing courthouse at the turn of the 20th Century and vote yes.

Mike Streb

Iowa City