Dane County is looking to purchase the former Ale Asylum building at 2002 Pankratz St. and convert it into a new elections center, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. The move aims to consolidate election operations in a safe facility after an increase in threats against election officials and workers in recent years.
If plans move forward, the county would buy the former restaurant and brewing facility for roughly $5 million. County and Madison election staff could share the space, which would accommodate training and recount activities as well.
Election offices are currently housed in the Downtown City-County Building. Relocation discussions began last year after a task force found that the building lacked access control, physical barriers, and video surveillance, and was thus susceptible to intruders.
The 45,000-square foot Ale Asylum facility includes a 36,000-square-foot heated warehouse that could house election equipment, materials, and ballots in a secure environment. The two-story part of the building would be converted into offices.
