TERRE HAUTE, Ind – Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett believes that another opinion on zoning should be sought concerning a proposed site for a new Vigo County Jail.

Bennett told us late Friday that he believes that an outside written legal opinion from an expert on state and local zoning law should be sought to determine what the best course is for proper procedure centering the old International Paper property.

Bennett said that he just wants to make sure that everyone is on solid legal footing to avoid potential problems down the road.

He added that until that advise is obtained he thinks that movement on zoning changes at the site should be put on hold.

County commissioners have filed a request for a zoning variance, rather than a change in zoning classification, to build a new sheriff’s office and security annex or a jail, on the site.

A variance would mean that the plans would not have to be reviewed by the city council.

The size of the jail has been reduced from the 527 beds recommended by consultants down to 480 to reduce cost.

The county faces a federal lawsuit concerning overcrowding at the current jail.