Long way to go before courthouse configuration

Whenever local government officials try to plan for growth, often they find themselves in a Catch-22.

If they try to consider growth, they may be criticized for building facilities that are too grand for the moment. If they don't consider it, then there's the possibility needs quickly outgrow the resources, such as is the case with Cape Girardeau's police station, where for decades officers have shoehorned operations into a building that was too small almost from the beginning.

Too big, and the government has to grow into its facilities. Too small, and the government may have to go back to taxpayers too soon.

The Cape Girardeau County government finds itself in a position of looking ahead at facilities, with the idea of consolidating services.

Recently, an architectural firm hired by the county presented three options for consolidating building needs based on analyzing current needs.

The two-courthouse system is not an ideal setup, and both locations are outdated, too small and insecure.

The jail and county administration buildings also are being considered in the plan to make best use of the courthouse square and properties recently bought by the county in Jackson's uptown area.

Last week the county announced it would form a citizens advisory committee to help weigh the options, one of which includes redirecting U.S. 61, removing the dogleg that goes around the administration building.

The architect's three options for facility upgrades all will be expensive and disruptive, and a great number of aspects will have to be heavily considered before proceeding.

The county made the right move by announcing a committee. We hope the committee is comprised of people with diverse backgrounds. If you're interested in being part of the committee, please call the county commission's clerk, Vicki Ivy, at 204-2494.

It's too early yet to decide what, if any, of the architect firm's options are what's best for the county. It will be interesting to see what level of interest and commitment the public takes in this project.

The county appears to be in a situation where the courthouses are clearly outdated, but perhaps other facilities are not. How much needs to be upgraded, and at what cost, for current needs with an eye on the future? The county government seems to be in tune with its constituency and understanding its Catch-22 position. So the commission should get credit for welcoming the public's input early in the process.