Parole move would leave empty space downtown.

Byline: Shelley Nelson

Mar. 10--When the Douglas County Board heads behind closed doors Thursday night, supervisors consider an estimated $500,000 project to reclaim about 7,800 square feet of unfinished space in the Government Center.

The proposal would provide leasable space to accommodate Wisconsin's probation and parole, and public defender's offices in Superior.

However, it could be years before the county could see a return on its investment. "It will take us 10 years at least to recoup that cost," said Supervisor Larry Quam. "So they would have to sign a lease for 10 years with an option for more." The county's administration committee recommended last Thursday moving ahead with a proposal to finish space once designated for a third courtroom to accommodate the two state …