On Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, Johnson County voters rejected a $94.5 million bond referendum to construct a new sheriff’s office and jail. The measure fell short of the 60% supermajority required by state law. This marks the fourth time in the past 26 years in which voters have rejected bond referendums for a new jail facility. 

The Board of Supervisors will continue working with the Johnson County Sheriff and the Office of the Iowa State Jail Inspector to further extend the service life of the existing building, while funding the transport and housing of overflow inmates to jails in surrounding counties.

Supervisor Chairperson Jon Green thanks the county employees, partners and community members for their help in developing and advancing the proposal to the ballot. Additional decisions, including whether to finalize the purchase of the property on IWV/Melrose Ave at Slothower Road in Iowa City, will be contingent upon future Board action.

View election results on the Secretary of State’s website here.