Title
Olympia Municipal Court Update
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive an update on the Olympia Municipal Court.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive an update on the Olympia Municipal Court.
Staff Contact:
Maryam Olson, Director, Olympia Municipal Court, 360.709.2783
Presenter(s):
Pam Nogueira, Judge, Olympia Municipal Court
Background and Analysis:
The Olympia Municipal Court has gone through a significant transformation. With the appointment of Judge Pam Nogueira in October 2023, the Olympia Municipal Court has had changes in all of its departments. All of the Municipal Court’s practices and policies have been reviewed to ensure Court Services promotes timely access to justice and properly serves the Olympia community. Probation is being redesigned so that it promotes a reduction in recidivism and an increase in the community’s wellness. Community Court has been reshaped to comply with best practices and expand its potential.
Climate Analysis:
On a daily basis, the court receives individuals who suffer the most within the community. Individuals who at times are houseless and living outdoors, and may abandon drug paraphernalia in parks or playgrounds, or dispose of controlled substances in our waterways. By ensuring this population receives help, the Olympia Municipal Court can directly impact Olympia’s ecosystem and assist with the City’s measures on climate change. Olympia Municipal Court can, and intends to, transform our downtown back to a vibrant location while not simply transferring the current concerns to other neighborhoods.
Equity Analysis:
A successful and effective Court furthers our community’s values. It increases access to justice and equitably addresses fairness. Courts will expand collaboration with City departments as well as create opportunities for public outreach regarding education and participation in the court system.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Through a thriving court, we will also make our community healthier and safer. We are alongside first responders in seeing and responding to the least fortunate members of our community. By ensuring accountability, prioritizing community safety, and providing rehabilitation, our city will be better. Our streets will be cleaner. Our waterways will be less polluted. Our parks will be preserved. Our local businesses will flourish. We have direct access to those in need of housing and social services, including substance use disorder and mental health treatment, physical health needs, employment, education and transportation. In summary, if we thrive, Olympia thrives.
Financial Impact:
There are no financial impacts related to this update.
Options:
1. Receive the update.
2. Do not receive the update.
3. Receive the update at another time.
Attachments:
Presentation