Jail Needs News Today

Beltrami County is eyeing a property half of a mile south of the Fifth Street roundabout to construct a new jail, with the county board approving a contract to purchase the lot for $540,000.

During his visit to Bemidji last week, U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber, who represents Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District, had the chance to tour the Beltrami County Jail on Feb. 16.

After months of studies and public input, the Beltrami County Board of Commissioners made the decision on Tuesday, Nov. 15, to build a new jail to replace the current facility that no longer meets state standards.

Following a period for public input, the Beltrami County Board is set to make a decision on the future of the Beltrami County Jail, pursuing one of seven options.

With 57 of 61 precincts reporting as of midnight, the totals had Riggs receiving 53.24% of the vote with 2,427 ballots cast in his favor, and Walton receiving 24.06% with 1,097 votes. Both will now advance to the general election.

Current Sheriff Ernie Beitel announced in February that he would not be seeking reelection in 2022.

The Beltrami County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday and set a date for a public hearing for a short-term rental ordinance and approved a contract for a Jail Needs and Feasibility Study.