Commissioner Martin Magnusson recently reported $17 million in cost overruns on various Correction Department building programs. That’s millions of dollars of extra money that, we the people, will be required to pay in order for the projects to go through.

Magnusson also stated that the $17 million is a “conservative figure” with all bids not in yet. Even with some projects being scaled back and the adult female facility on hold, the costs keep mounting.

There is talk of cutting almost 100 beds from the Warren Supermax program to try and make ends meet. While building projects are on hold and others are scaled back, Magnusson claims, “We are building a prison system for the next 100 years.”

Oh really? I don’t believe it. Cutbacks, more crowding, less chance for rehabilitation, and higher taxes seem the more plausible scenario.

One bright note.

Magnusson claims the “consultants doing cost projections were the best available in the country.”

Do you believe him? Angus? Anybody? Patrick Mehr Charlotte