Committee votes to not send proposed Criminal Justice Center to full council

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Skeptics appear to be winning the fight over a new Criminal Justice Center in Indianapolis.

On Tuesday evening, the Rules and Public Policy Committee said by a 6-2 vote that they would not forward the current plan to the full council.

“When considering such a long-term proposal with such a large price tag, I believe we owe it to taxpayers to be thoughtful and cautious in our decision-making,” City-County Council president Maggie Lewis.

Mayor Ballard wants to put a new complex on the grounds of an old General Motors plant west of downtown.

It would combine courts, the jail and associated agencies in one building.

People on both sides of the debate say such a complex is necessary. But, critics say, at more than $1.75 billion, this is not the way to do it.

“Simply put, the numbers have too many holes and moving parts,” said council member Pam Hickman.

Lewis urged those in favor to note give up.