An asbestos inspection of the former Louisa County Jail in Wapello found only limited asbestos in the nearly 100-year-old building, but county officials say demolition remains the most likely outcome.
During the May 19 meeting of the Louisa County Board of Supervisors, supervisors learned that only two of 19 samples taken throughout the building tested positive for asbestos. Both samples came from window caulking in the basement and on the second floor. Materials including pipe insulation, flooring, wall and ceiling textures, and stair treads tested negative.
Supervisor Shawn Maine said he was surprised by the findings. However, officials said the building still has enough code violations and other issues to make renovation unlikely.
