Title
Approval of a Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of a Community Court Enhancement Grant from the Department of Justice
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Move approve the Community Court Enhancement Grant from the Department of Justice
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the grant awarded to the City of Olympia Municipal Court in the amount of $400,000 for two years from the Department of Justice for the enhancement of the Community Court.
Staff Contact:
Maryam Olson, Court Administrator, Olympia Municipal Court, 360.709.2783
Diane Whaley, Community Court Executive, Olympia Municipal Court, 360.753.8057
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item
Background and Analysis:
As one of seven recipients nationwide of the grant from the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, Olympia Community Court will use the money to expand its operations, which have become a model for community courts around the country. In the first year of the two-year grant, Olympia will increase its number of case managers from one part-time manager to two full-time managers and add a part-time housing case manager. The grant will also provide funding to assist those that are houseless with temporary-shelter costs, rental-application fees, and rental down payments. Additionally, the year-one funds will help set up an on-site, intensive outpatient program to assist participants with drug, alcohol, or mental-health issues.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
This grant will provide additional personnel who will aid in the outreach of community services and housing for individuals in hopes to get them off the street and housed, as well as getting them on-site chemical dependency and mental health classes.
Options:
1. Approve, the Community Court will have additional funding for necessary support services to dedicate more time and resources to court participants - especially during Covid time when individuals are struggling.
2. Do not approve, the Community Court will be lacking the personnel needed to spend additional time, resources, and commitment to individuals.
3. Consider approval at another time.
Financial Impact:
The grant requires a 25% match by the city. This match amount is already funded through the public safety levy. No additional funding is required.
Attachments:
Resolution
Award Letter
Budget Summary