The Copper Country Republicans have withdrawn support for Houghton County’s proposed jail construction millage, citing taxpayer concerns and the county’s decision to fund the project entirely through a long-term property tax.
The local party chapter announced the position through its Facebook page, acknowledging the work of individuals and organizations involved in developing the current project plans. However, the Republicans contend that a 30-year millage extends the financial burden on taxpayers without reducing the total project cost.
Recent construction management estimates for the jail project came in $4-5 million lower than a 2025 proposal by Abonmarche Consultants, which had estimated costs at approximately $32 million.
The party noted the county’s decision to retain county assets rather than sell them to generate capital for the project. The county explored selling properties including Canal View, the Houghton County Transfer Station, the Houghton County Marina, and vacant lots. However, previous research determined many vacant properties contained too much wetland or were otherwise undevelopable by residential or commercial developers. Without revenue from asset sales, the full construction cost falls on property taxpayers.
The party also noted the county’s historical pattern of scheduling property millage votes during August, May, or February elections in off-years from state representation and federal elections. In April, the Houghton County Board of Commissioners voted against a resolution supporting state legislation requiring all property millage initiatives appear on November ballots, which coincide with statewide and federal races.
The announcement comes after the League of Women Voters endorsed the jail construction plans. Both organizations participated in the Houghton County Jail Committee’s work between November 2025 and April 2026.
Find the full statement from the Copper Country Republicans here. Find the statement below.
