In a recent meeting of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee (CJCC), members discussed ongoing efforts to reduce the jail population and improve community support for individuals transitioning from incarceration. Since its inception in 2010, the CJCC has focused on connecting various stakeholders, including mental health professionals and community organizations, to address the needs of those involved in the criminal justice system.

One significant outcome of the meeting was the acknowledgment of Pastor Dorothy Whiston's contributions to the \"Inside Out\" program, which aims to support individuals reentering society after incarceration. Although Whiston expressed her desire to step back from active involvement, she offered to assist in recruiting individuals with firsthand experience from the Johnson County Jail to join the committee.

Members emphasized the importance of including representatives from mental health and substance abuse services in the committee's discussions. Suggestions were made to reach out to local organizations, including the Community Crisis Center and the CFR substance abuse provider, to ensure comprehensive representation.

The committee also discussed the need for public involvement, proposing to create positions for community members who may not have formal affiliations but have a vested interest in the issues at hand. This approach aims to foster a more inclusive dialogue around criminal justice reform.

As the committee prepares to meet again in October, members agreed on the necessity of having decision-makers present to facilitate swift action on pressing issues. The meeting concluded with plans to formalize outreach efforts to recruit additional members and establish a regular meeting schedule, ensuring that the committee remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community.