Necessary expansion vs. flushing away tax money; debate over Hall County Courthouse continues

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. --  From cramped courtrooms to creative illustrations, the saga surrounding the future of Hall County’s courthouse swirls on.

After months of discussions over the cost, the location and whether to have an addition, the Hall County Commissioners are still juggling a variety of options.

Last meeting, they explored possibly acquiring the old Principal Financial Building. The building is currently known as the Islanders Annex building and was purchased by Grand Island Public Schools, but the district hasn't finished paying for it. 

Commissioners have toured the building and say it could turn out to be a more expensive option. 

Commissioner Gary Quandt, who is against an addition to the courthouse, produced a mini toilet with $20 bills and a sign that said "tax dollar money." He said an addition would be flushing taxpayers' money down the drain. 

The commissioners eventually voted 5-2 to focus on the original plan of the addition to the courthouse but to remain open to other options. 

They will revisit the topic in two weeks.