‘A historic step’: Clinton County voters to see ballot question to build new justice center, modernize facilities

CLINTON COUNTY, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Clinton County voters will be asked to support a ballot measure this April to address critical infrastructure needs within county's legal and correctional systems.

Clinton County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a ballot question for the April 2026 election seeking voter approval for the "Justice Center Project," a widespread modernization plan to fund construction of a new detention center and comprehensive renovations to the county's courtrooms, circuit clerk's office and prosecutor's office.

The move is a significant milestone for public safety improvement goals in the county and represents the first time a unified solution has reached this stage in the election process, following months of planning. For more than two decades, the state of the current detention center has been a point of concern for local officials.

“This is a historic moment for Clinton County,” Commissioners said in a joint statement. “By working collectively with our Sheriff, Justice Staff, Prosecutor, and Circuit Clerk legal, we have developed a plan that prioritizes public safety and accessibility. For the first time in over two decades, we are bringing a comprehensive, long-term solution to the people of Clinton County.”

The Justice Center Project focuses on two primary pillars:

• A New Detention Center: Replacing the outdated 50+ year-old facility with a modern structure designed for improved safety, efficient operations, mental health needs and future growth.

• Courtroom Renovations: Fully renovating existing courtrooms to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring that the halls of justice are accessible to every citizen of Clinton County.

The Commission and other elected officials will engage in a public outreach campaign between now and the April election to provide residents with detailed information regarding the project’s impact, design, and necessity.

Details on public town halls and informational sessions will be released in the coming weeks, according to a news release from the Clinton County Commissioners Office.

“We believe the Justice Center Project is the best path forward for our community,” the Commission added. “We look forward to sharing our vision with the public and working together to secure a safer, more accessible future for Clinton County.”