The Franklin County Commission voted Monday to work with the county highway and sanitation departments in developing plans to tear down the old county jail in downtown Russellville.

The former jail, located behind the courthouse, was left vacant when the new jail opened more than five years ago.

“It has become an eyesore,” Probate Judge Barry Moore said.

There are currently no plans in place as to what the property will be used for.

Based on preliminary discussions at Monday’s regular meeting, work on the project would more than likely take place during the winter while crews from the two departments are held up on other duties due to weather.

In other business, the commission:

• hired Denise Poore as the chief clerk in the sheriff’s office

• voted to bid out property insurance

• approved a contract with Southern Environmental Services

• voted to advertise for bids for the new East Franklin Volunteer Fire Department.