Jackson County officials have been given petitions calling for voters to have a say in where to build a new adult detention center.

The petitions, containing what organizers said were 2,594 signatures, were given Monday to supervisors, including board president John McKay, Chancery Clerk Terry Miller and Circuit Clerk Joe Martin.

Tyres Autrey, of Citizens to Relocate the Jail, said opponents weren’t challenging the need for a new center, but oppose the proposed site. That site is located next to the current adult detention center.

Opponents maintain the proposed site would be too near a residential neighborhood in north Pascagoula.

The new jail, which is expected to cost about $19.3 million, will house 564 inmates.