A half-cent sales tax increase in Cochise County is currently passing after Tuesday's election. It's allowing Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels and his staff to move forward with planning for a new jail facility.

The tax increase is leading by 874 votes as of Thursday evening. If the lead holds, this marks the second time voters have approved the measure to fund construction of a new jail facility.

"I still feel very optimistic in the fact that the trend's been uptick and ever since we haven't lost ground. We've gained ground on the election numbers," Dannels said.

The sheriff expressed determination to move forward with the project despite any potential challenges.

"Until the judge says stop, we're going to push forward. The wishes of the people were heard," Dannels said.

With vote

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