Whatcom listening session for community input on the Justice Project Implementation Plan
WHAT
- A special meeting of the Whatcom County Council and of the Incarceration Prevention & Reduction Task Force, featuring a town hall session hosted by the Whatcom County Executive's Office and the Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force.
- Community members are invited to this in-person and online opportunity to learn more about—and to give feedback on—the development of the Justice Project Implementation Plan.
WHO
- Barry Buchanan, Chair of Whatcom County Council; member of the Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force.
- Tyler Schroeder, Deputy County Executive; member of the Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force.
- Stephen Gockley, Co-Chair, Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force.
- Jack Hovenier, Co-Chair, Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force.
WHEN
WHERE
- In person:
- Whatcom County Council Chambers, Whatcom County Courthouse
- 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225
- Online:
- Zoom address: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84486225171?pwd=MyttaURHOFhpQ2ltM1Vs K1FnSkN2UT09
- Zoom Meeting ID: 844 8622 5171
- Zoom passcode: 729674
- More info: Town Hall Listening Session
BACKGROUND
Whatcom County has been working to develop a plan for a criminal legal system that is built to address the root causes of incarceration. Designed with rehabilitation as the goal, it prioritizes community-based preventative services, successful re-entry and the reduction of re-incarceration, specifically by investing in behavioral health services.
Earlier this year, the Stakeholder Advisory Committee finalized the Justice Project Needs Assessment Report to evaluate and determine the existing and future needs to address underlying causes of incarceration, provide treatment resources for substance and behavioral health needs, and incarcerate people with dignity and professional care to help them successfully re-enter the community. Now, the Justice Project Implementation Plan is being developed, led by the Whatcom County Executive, with guidance from the Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force, and with input from members of the community, county staff, and key stakeholders.